DEFENSE INDUSTRY - THE FUTURE OF THE REGION

Swietokrzyskie's two cities are directly associated with defense industry. These are Skarżysko-Kamienna - the seat of Mesko and Kielce - the stage for the annual International Defence Industry Exhibition - the showcase for exhibitors from all over the world.

Last Monday Kielce saw the economic conference on "Świętokrzyskie - future developments." One of the panels held within the framework of the event was "Defence industry - the region's future. The conference brought together Arkadiusz Siwko - President of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), Waldemar Skowron - Mesko President of Board, Jaroslaw Rusiecki - chairman of the Senate committee of national defense, Andrzej Bętkowski - Deputy Swietokrzyskie Voivode, Zbigniew Koruba of Kielce University of Technology, and Krzysztof Wątorek PhD of the Higher School of Economics, Law and Medical Sciences in Kielce.

The panel discussions focussed on  defense industry importance  for the region's and the country's economy.

- The defence industry sector is supposed to be a flywheel for Poland's economy This sector is deeply rooted in Świętokrzyskie region. Mesko Skarżysko Kamienna stands the chance to become Poland's and Europe's leading importer and a chief provider for the NATO countries' armies - said Arkadiusz Siwko during the conference.

PGZ President also stressed the importance of the International Defence Industry Exhibition and its role for development of a strong armaments sector. The President expressed his willingness to expand cooperation with regards to  MSPO organization.

- This year's Expo was a record-breaking one. It has not been a coincidence. This is an important event. We have been been appointed its strategic partner and therefore we want to increase our MSPO presence. Thus we can fully utilise Polish Armaments Group potential - added PGZ CEO.

(PP)