Solidarity logo at NATO Headquarters
09.09.2020
On September 9th a commemorative ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of the birth of the Solidarity Movement in Poland was held at the NATO Headquarters. The event was combined with the inauguration of the iconic Solidarity sign installed on the NATO premises.
In his speech addressing the guests the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Poland to NATO, Tomasz Szatkowski, recalled that Solidarity was born in 1980 in Gdańsk out of Poles' longing for freedom, democracy, justice and a decent life.
- Solidarity was born in my country but its impact was felt all throughout Europe. Changes triggered by the movement contributed greatly to the fall of communism in other countries which were imprisoned behind the Iron Curtain after World War II - emphasized Ambassador Szatkowski.
He also shared his belief that NATO Headquarters was the perfect place for the iconic Solidarity logo.
- I couldn’t think of a better place for this red logo behind me than here at the NATO Headquarters. It is here that 30 Allies exercise solidarity and unity every day. The Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty is the best symbol of that idea which is very much alive among us.
During the ceremony, NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană and the Permanent Representative of France to NATO Muriel Domenach also took the floor, pointing to how Polish Solidarity inspired other European countries and ultimately led to the unification of Europe.
- Solidarity inspired Poland, and Poland inspired the world - underlined NATO Deputy Secretary General.
On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the birth of Solidarity, the Permanent Representation of the Republic of Poland to NATO also presented an exhibit devoted to the history of the Solidarity Movement and the democratic changes in Poland. The exhibit was prepared by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Permanent Delegation of Poland to NATO
