Looking at the little things
A great deal of the Western media coverage about Poland generally concerns two main issues. Obviously, the first is the country's role in Iraq, and media outlets are always on the lookout for any hint or suggestion that Poland will get cold feet and pull out. One quiet aside or slip of the tongue (or, more usually, slip of a translator's finger) is guaranteed to fill a few acres of newsprint in the West as editors speculate which coalition member will be next to realize that supporting Bush and his blood-letting crusade is not going to make them much money after all, only enemies (not to mention giving the rest of the world a strong impression of not knowing when to stop backing the wrong horse).
The second is EU membership, and, although that's now a done deal and coverage has slipped back, stories can often be found pondering whether Poland plans to shift its position on the EU constitution on the back of Spain's policy change. However, mention the words 'EU constitution' to most people and just watch their eyes glaze over, see the lower-jaw protrude in a tight-lipped stifled yawn, and then wonder why you suddenly have one less friend.
But in spite of the ongoing international drama, whether it be tragic farce or crushing boredom, Poles keep going about their business: bridges are being built and deals are getting done.
A good example was in last week's Naples Daily News. No, not Naples, Italy but Naples, Florida. The paper carried an informative story telling its readers that Collier County has embarked on an exchange with Poland that will strengthen trade, technology, investment and economic development on both sides of the Atlantic. To begin with, at a function at the Polish Embassy in Washington, a partnership agreement was signed between the Florida tradeport (which is, apparently, an ideally located hub to access the Americas) and Poland's Industrial Development Agency.
The Collier delegation then attended a two-day conference on U.S.-Polish defense industry cooperation, at which both Polish and U.S. government and military representatives were present.
From the individuals quoted, it was clear that this market offers Polish companies great opportunities. Moreover, the Americans came across as understanding very well what it takes to sell successfully in Poland, with one commentator remarking succinctly that Poles rely on trust, and that "you have to get on a plane, or there's no compelling sell."
Americans also see Poland as a good route to the rest of the EU, with the added bonuses of good manpower and lower wages.
In the sunshine state at least, Poland's future seems to be looking bright.
The second is EU membership, and, although that's now a done deal and coverage has slipped back, stories can often be found pondering whether Poland plans to shift its position on the EU constitution on the back of Spain's policy change. However, mention the words 'EU constitution' to most people and just watch their eyes glaze over, see the lower-jaw protrude in a tight-lipped stifled yawn, and then wonder why you suddenly have one less friend.
But in spite of the ongoing international drama, whether it be tragic farce or crushing boredom, Poles keep going about their business: bridges are being built and deals are getting done.
A good example was in last week's Naples Daily News. No, not Naples, Italy but Naples, Florida. The paper carried an informative story telling its readers that Collier County has embarked on an exchange with Poland that will strengthen trade, technology, investment and economic development on both sides of the Atlantic. To begin with, at a function at the Polish Embassy in Washington, a partnership agreement was signed between the Florida tradeport (which is, apparently, an ideally located hub to access the Americas) and Poland's Industrial Development Agency.
The Collier delegation then attended a two-day conference on U.S.-Polish defense industry cooperation, at which both Polish and U.S. government and military representatives were present.
From the individuals quoted, it was clear that this market offers Polish companies great opportunities. Moreover, the Americans came across as understanding very well what it takes to sell successfully in Poland, with one commentator remarking succinctly that Poles rely on trust, and that "you have to get on a plane, or there's no compelling sell."
Americans also see Poland as a good route to the rest of the EU, with the added bonuses of good manpower and lower wages.
In the sunshine state at least, Poland's future seems to be looking bright.
