Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski kicked off a two-day state visit to Malta yesterday pledging his country's intention to work together in Malta within the framework of a stronger European Union.
Being at the helm of the largest of the EU acceding countries, Mr Kwasniewski is perceived to be one of the leading political leaders in Europe.
During a meeting at the Palace, in Valletta, President Guido de Marco and Mr Kwasniewski spoke about the need for Europe to continue basing its policies on the principle of solidarity.
The Polish president said it was important for the EU to continue working closely with countries and regions outside the union, especially in the Mediterranean and in the East.
Asked about the draft EU constitution, Mr Kwasniewski expressed his country's intention to hammer out a deal that was acceptable to all.
The Polish government has so far insisted that the voting system under the Nice Treaty - which is beneficial to Poland - must be retained. This stand has been cited as the main reason why the draft Constitution broke down last December.
"We want to reach a deal and expect the Irish presidency to organise a good framework to hold discussions among us to try and find some kind of compromise," Mr Kwasniewski said.
Speaking during a state dinner at the Palace later, Prof. de Marco said that thanks to EU membership, the dream of opening borders between nations has been realised.
Prof. de Marco said that Poland has built for itself a future within the fold of a Europe of states that share in common a troubled history but, more importantly, see in their unity of purpose, ideals and cooperation, their common future in peace and prosperity.
"Throughout the ages Malta and Poland were formed with the same spirituality and the same teachings of the Catholic faith. This faith has moulded our character, given us strength and fortified our moral fibre as a people."
He noted with satisfaction the intention of the two countries to open embassies in Warsaw and in Valletta, saying he was certain the development would also assist in furthering economic activity.
Prof. de Marco paid respects to the young Polish officers who in their struggle for freedom died in Malta and are buried in the Kalkara military cemetery.
Upon his arrival in Malta, the Polish president took part in a wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial, in Floriana.
Mr Kwasniewski, an ex-communist turned social democrat, has been president of Poland for the past nine years.
A founder of the Democratic Left Alliance, in 1991 he became a member of parliament and the SLD's victory in the 1993 election was largely due to his leadership.
In 1995, promising to ease the problems caused by Poland's abrupt shift to a free-market economy, he was elected president, narrowly defeating Lech Walesa. He was re-elected four years ago.
Mr Kwasniewski will today hold meetings with Prime Minister Eddie Fenech Adami and Opposition Leader Alfred Sant.