Readout of National Security Advisor General James L. Jones’ meeting with Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski on September 1, 2009

General Jones presented Foreign Minister Sikorski a letter from President Obama commemorating this important day in history.  The letter included: “On behalf of the people of the United States, I join my voice with those commemorating this anniversary; in expressing our admiration and gratitude to all those who have stood for freedom, hope, and the strength of the human spirit over adversity and tyranny; and in sending my warmest wishes for continued friendship between the United States and Poland.”
 
General Jones and Foreign Minister Sikorski met for over an hour and enjoyed a productive and broad ranging discussion.  The two noted the close ties between the United States and Poland and expressed their desire to continue to further deepen and strengthen them.  General Jones and Foreign Minister Sikorski reviewed the situation in Afghanistan, and General Jones expressed appreciation for Poland’s substantial troop contributions and continuing strong support for this difficult mission.
 
General Jones reiterated the United States’ firm and unwavering commitment to Poland’s security and defense and updated the Foreign Minister on the ongoing U.S. review of ballistic missile defense.  General Jones stressed that the aim of the review is to enhance European and American defense in light of an emerging threat from Iran.  The General noted that the United States has taken no decisions regarding missile defense and highlighted that as part of the review the United States will engage in a strategic dialogue with Poland.
 
In closing, they also discussed our mutual interest in working together to promote democracy and human rights.

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary