Posted by Andreas Runggatscher
International Breakfast - October 21st
Our October 21st meeting featured Consul General Adrian Kubicki of Poland who explained its status as an area of economic investment in the United States. He expressed his optimism in Poland’s future as a young democracy that is investing in innovation and technology.

    Read the full report inside.



RCNY International Breakfast at the UN
Report by Andreas Runggatscher
 

The October International Breakfast of the 2020-21 year of the Rotary Club of New York took place on Zoom on Oct 21, 2020. The speaker was Consul General Adrian Kubicki of Poland, who pioneered a visa education program with LOT airlines that contributed to Poland being included in the United States’ Visa Waiver Program. Consul General Adrian Kubicki spoke about the need for Poland to be represented in New York as a major economic center as the nation develops its economy and influence on the world stage as a bridge between East and West.

Consul General Adrian Kubicki noted Poland’s strong economic performance in Europe and its economic resiliency throughout COVID-19 pandemic. From a historical perspective, Poland held elections nearly 9 years after the labor movement began in 1980 and has continued to build its democracy. Extending beyond is borders, Poland values freedom and democracy in its foreign policy in the European Union and with other countries.

Poland views itself as a leader in Central and Eastern Europe in representing the region as an area of economic investment in the United States. From a financial technology perspective, contactless payment technologies are of focus in Poland with logos such as Mastercard investing in research and development. With global supply chains disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, Poland has positioned as a nation that presents supply chain advantages with high quality and reduced labor costs.

Consul General Adrian Kubicki concluded his presentation by highlighting his optimism in Poland’s future as a young democracy that is investing in innovation and technology to develop its economy. To adapt to the changing global economic landscape, the Consul General noted Poland’s strategic partnerships with China to further economic development in Europe. President Gerard Schriffen made closing remarks on the historical importance of Poland’s Solidarity movement and how that extends to today.