[PT] Message to Poland

[Bruno]

SECRET

Subject: Strengthening Economic Ties Through Free Trade

ManBear
To the Honourable, Deputy Minister Wiola Gorska of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs


The Portuguese Republic is seeking to strengthen its global economic relationships through selective and high-value trade partnerships. It is with this spirit that we reach out to propose a Free Trade Agreement with the Kingdom of Poland. We are confident that such an accord would foster mutual economic growth, improve market access, and open new avenues for cooperation in the years to come. We would be honoured to discuss the possibility of aligning our trade strategies.

Please let us know if this proposal is of interest to your government.

Sincerely,
Luís Amado
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Portuguese Republic

 

[Bruno]

ManBear

 

[ManBear]

To: Louis Amado; Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno

Subject: Strengthening Economic Relationships

CC: N/A

Security: Secured and Encrypted Top Secret

Minister Amado, First I'd like to thank you for reaching out to he Polish government in an attempt to strengthen our economic friendship. We are amenable to establishing a free trade agreement between our two nations. We concur with your position that the agreement would foster growth, improve access, and open new avenues of cooperation between our two nations. We are open to begin these discussions in person as soon as your government is able to.

Regards, Wiola Gorska Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Kingdom of Poland

 

[Bruno]

From: Luís Amado, Minister of Foreign Affairs – Portuguese Republic
To: Wiola Gorska, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs – Kingdom of Poland ManBear
Subject: Free Trade Agreement – Outline and Cooperation Framework

Your Excellency,

I thank you for your warm and constructive reply regarding the establishment of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the Portuguese Republic and the Kingdom of Poland. Allow me to outline the broad objectives we envision for this agreement:

1. Removal of Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers – Gradual elimination of customs duties and reduction of regulatory obstacles to facilitate the flow of goods, services, and investments between our two nations.
2. Promotion of Bilateral Investment – Creation of a secure and predictable environment for private sector engagement, including legal safeguards for investors.
3. Innovation and Research Partnerships – Encouraging joint ventures and exchange programmes between our universities, research institutes, and private enterprises.

We also propose a complementary Maritime Cooperation Clause within the FTA framework. This would include mutual support in counter-piracy operations, improved information sharing on maritime threats, and the possibility of conducting joint naval patrols in vulnerable shipping lanes. Such cooperation would not only secure our respective merchant fleets but also contribute to the broader stability of global trade routes.

I trust that this initial outline can serve as a common starting point for the drafting process. We remain open to incorporating your government’s priorities into the structure of the agreement, ensuring that it reflects the shared interests and aspirations of our nations.

I look forward to your response on the proposed framework and the next steps for formalising the negotiation process.

With highest regards,
Luís Amado
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Portuguese Republic

SECRET & CLASSIFED​

 

[ManBear]

To: Luis Amado; Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno

Subject: Re: Free Trade Agreement – Outline and Cooperation Framework

CC: Wiola Gorska; Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs

Security: Secured and Encrypted Top Secret

Minister Amado, I do apologize for taking the chain of communications you were having with Deputy Minister Gorska but unfortunately she has been called away on a short term diplomatic mission and she has asked me to take over this line of communication with your government personally. On behalf of my government, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude for your warm and constructive message regarding the proposed Free Trade Agreement between the Portuguese Republic and the Kingdom of Poland. We highly value the spirit of cooperation and shared vision your government has reflected within your proposal. We welcome the objectives outlines within the document such as the gradual removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers, bilateral investment, and the encouragement of innovation and research possibilities between our two nations. The immense potential of these initiatives have promise for strengthening the economic and academic ties between our two nations. We are encouraged moreso by the proposed Maritime Cooperation Clause that ensures the security of our respective merchant fleets and supports the stability of international trade routes and aligns closely with our strategic goals. Join naval operations and enhanced information sharing will undoubtedly contribute to regional maritime safety and the stability of global trade. We are looking forward to further discussion on the detailed framework of this agreement. With a view to formalizing this arrangement that will be mutually beneficial and sustainable for both of our nations. We are confident that this partnership will serve as a foundation for long-term economic growth, security, and innovation between our nations and other nations.

Kind Regards, Jakub Szymański Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Kingdom of Poland

 

[Bruno]

From: Fernando dos Santos, Minister of Trade, Portuguese Republic
To: Jakub Szymański, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Poland ManBear

Your Excellency,

On behalf of the Government of the Portuguese Republic, I extend my deepest gratitude for your thoughtful and encouraging response regarding our proposed Free Trade Agreement. It is with great happiness that we see the Government of Poland share our vision for closer economic, maritime, and technological cooperation.

We views this agreement as an opportunity not only to expand trade volumes but also to complement the comparative strengths of both of our economies. From our perspective, the most mutually beneficial areas will be:

• Maritime Cooperation – Portugal highly values Poland’s recognition of the Maritime Cooperation Clause. Given our respective merchant fleets and shipbuilding traditions, strengthening naval collaboration and protecting vital trade routes is of paramount interest to us. Portugal is committed to joint naval operations and intelligence-sharing initiatives that bolster regional and global maritime security, especialy in the Baltic and Atlantic.
• Agricultural and Food Exports – Portuguese wine, olive oil, and agricultural products hold strong potential in the Polish market. In exchange, Poland’s grain, dairy, and processed food industries would find natural consumers in Portugal, ensuring a balanced agricultural exchange.

We believe these two pillars will serve as the backbone of a sustainable partnership that not only expands trade but also secures innovation and maritime safety for both of our nations. To advance this initiative, the Portuguese Republic proposes that our delegation in the Embassy to meet in Warsaw in the coming weeks to finalize the agreement’s framework. Our Ambassador will also reach out to your Ministry shortly to coordinate the agenda and ensure productive discussions.

Fernando dos Santos
Minister of Trade and Commerce
Portuguese Republic

SECRET & CLASSIFED

---

Ambassador Rui Machado, a seasoned diplomat in his early fifties, stood inside the Portuguese Embassy in Warsaw. His desk was neat, save for a leather folder containing briefing papers on trade and cooperation. He adjusted his navy-blue tie carefully in the mirror. Rui was known among his colleagues for his pragmatism, a man who valued quiet precision over flamboyance. He checked his watch, then closed the folder with a deliberate snap. “Time to make our case” he murmured to himself, sliding the folder into his briefcase. As he stepped into the Embassy’s grand hall, the staff greeted him respectfully. A young attaché hurried over, handing him a last-minute intelligence note about Polish industrial sectors of interest. Rui accepted it with a nod, placing it inside his folder without breaking stride. He gave a polite smile to the receptionist, then pushed open the heavy oak doors of the Embassy. The brisk Warsaw air hit him, sharp and cool, carrying the faint smell of just starting to appear Spring leaves and exhaust from passing cars.

Waiting outside was a sleek black Fiat with small Portuguese flags affixed to the hood. His driver, a veteran named Miguel, quiet, reliable, and former military, stepped out smartly, opening the rear door. Rui gave him a firm nod. “Bom dia Miguel, To the Ministry, please” he said simply, as he slid into the back seat, placing his briefcase carefully on the leather beside him. He leaned back slightly, taking a deep breath, mentally rehearsing his opening words.

The car pulled out from the embassy gates, blending into Warsaw’s busy traffic. Rui gazed out of the window, watching trams rattle along the streets, pedestrians bundled in coats, and the occasional café terrace with its stubborn patrons braving the cold. Miguel drove steadily, weaving through the streets with military precision. Inside, Rui flipped open the folder, reviewing the sections on Portuguese wine exports, renewable energy cooperation, and maritime security. His lips curled faintly at the thought: If this works, Lisbon and Warsaw will become far more than trading partners.

At last, the car slowed, gliding up to the grand steps of the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Rui closed his folder, tucking it under his arm as Miguel stepped out and opened the door for him. Rui emerged with deliberate composure, straightening his coat, and glanced briefly up at the imposing neoclassical façade of the Ministry.

 

[ManBear]

Ambassador Rui would step out of the car and be met by the Polish flags and the plaque to the right of the door bearing the white eagle of Poland wearing a golden crown signifying this was the Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The blistering cold wind would blow down the Warsaw street and catch the coattails of the Portuguese Ambassador, before he could make it into the building. Upon his entry into the building he would be sent through the metal detectors and a police dog that was trained to detect explosives before he was allowed further into the building. When the Ambassador reached reception he would be be greeted by a young Polish woman who greeted him by his title and his name. The remaining receptionists, some half dozen, would continue working without looking up. "Ambassador, if you will follow me, I will show you where your meeting will take place. Deputy Minister Szymański will be there shortly."

She would stand and motion for him to follow her through the halls where offices of Polish deputy ministers and attaches were situated until they were standing outside a small conference room bearing the Polish and Portuguese flags. "There is water and glasses already on the table for your use, Mr. Ambassador."

She would motion him inside before returning back to her station at the front desk. Ambassador Rui would wait for barely three minutes before the door opened and a middle-aged man stepped into the room wearing thick glasses. He would offer his hand in greeting. "Ambassador Rui my name is Jakub Szymański, you can call me Jakub. I know we only shared a brief email with one another but I have been apprised of the prior chain of emails by Deputy Minister Gorska before she left to insure I was up to speed." Jakub would take a seat across from Rui. "Minister Gorska said your government had intentions of establishing trade by removing tariff and non-tariff barriers, bilateral investment, and a research partnership between our universities, research institutes and private businesses. In your later email sent before your arrival today, you mentioned a maritime cooperation and expanding trade from just the removal of barriers to including agriculture and food exports. Let's start on the biggest area of concern for the Polish government. Trade. What is your government's ideas in regards to the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers?"

Bruno

 

[Bruno]

“Deputy Minister Jakub, thank you for laying out the question so directly, I believe that is the best way to achieve progress. On behalf of Lisbon, allow me to outline how we see the issue of tariff and non-tariff barriers.

Portugal is prepared to phase out duties on Polish agricultural exports, in particular, grains, dairy, and processed foods, which we recognize as strong and competitive sectors for Poland. In parallel, we seek fair and reciprocal access for Portuguese wine, olive oil, citrus, and other agricultural exports into the Polish market. By phasing these measures, both our producers have time to adapt without disruption. With Poland’s Baltic ports and Portugal’s Atlantic position, we can establish a fast lane shipping framework, fewer inspections on trusted goods, digitalized customs clearance, and potentially even preferential shipping rates for cargo between Gdańsk and Lisbon/Sines. This could drastically cut costs for our exporters.

We are fully aware that in every FTA there are sensitive industries. Portugal is willing to negotiate transitional periods and safeguard clauses that allow either of our countries to temporarily reintroduce protections if a sector is destabilized. This gives both of us assurance that liberalization will be controlled and sustainable.

Deputy Minister, our goal is simple: we want Portuguese wine, olive oil, and technology to be found in Polish homes, and Polish grain, dairy, and machinery to be found in Portuguese homes. But more importantly, we want to make sure both our producers feel they are gaining, not losing, from this agreement. That is why we believe a balanced, phased approach is the way forward. Does this vision align with how Poland views its priorities?”

ManBear

 

[ManBear]

"Thank you Minister Rui for such a well thought out plan on behalf of the Portuguese government. This certainly aligns with Poland's views and our priorities. Poland being a net exporter of grains and dairies would help supply the Portuguese market at a competitive price while Portugal's wine, olive oil, and citrus products would help fill the gaps within Poland's without undermining our own domestic producers. The establishment of the fast-lane shipping network would give access tot eh Central and Eastern European markets for Portugal and the same would open up the African and Mediterranean markets for Poland. This would position both of our nations strategically in the economic aspect of Europe and Northern Africa immensely. As for the safeguard clauses, it must be fast acting to further protect our citizens and domestic companies from any potential harm.

If your team would have the document written and allow us to review it for any potential changes, I'm sure we can get this signed before we leave.

Before we move on from trade, I do believe we must address the Maritime Cooperation Clause as it is so closely intertwined with trade between our two nations. Having legal protections is good but also ensuring the physical aspect of protections is the best way to ensure the survivability of this FTA."

Bruno

 

[Bruno]

“Excellency, in response to your remarks and with deep appreciation for Poland’s openness, my team has prepared a draft text reflecting both of our priorities. This document is, of course, for review and amendment by your delegation before we move forward to signature.”

Draft Treaty of Strategic Trade and Maritime Cooperation between the Republic of Portugal and the Kingdom of Poland

Preamble

Recognizing the shared commitment of Portugal and Poland to prosperity, security, and solidarity within Europe, both nations agree to establish a framework that strengthens economic ties, secures maritime trade, and enhances cooperation in fields of mutual benefit.

Article I – Trade Cooperation

Poland shall facilitate the export of grains, cereals, and dairy products to Portugal at competitive rates, supporting food security and supply stability.

Portugal shall facilitate the export of wine, olive oil, citrus fruits, and other agricultural products to Poland, ensuring these imports complement rather than undermine Polish domestic producers.

Both parties shall establish a Fast-Lane Shipping Network, reducing transit times and costs

Safeguard Clauses: In the event of market disruption or threat to domestic industries, either party may enact temporary protective measures.

Such measures must be:

Proportional, Transparent, Time-limited, and Reviewed jointly within 30 days of implementation.

Article II – Maritime Cooperation Clause

Both nations recognize that secure maritime lanes are fundamental to the success of this treaty.

Portugal and Poland shall establish a framework for Naval and Maritime Intelligence Sharing, focusing on: Counter-terrorism at sea, Anti-piracy operations, Protection of shipping lanes, Monitoring of illicit trafficking (arms, drugs, human smuggling).

Joint naval exercises shall be organized periodically, strengthening interoperability between the Polish Navy and the Portuguese Navy.

Both parties shall establish a Maritime Security Liaison Office to coordinate intelligence, response times, and crisis management.

Article III – Institutional Framework

A Joint Trade and Maritime Commission (JTMC) will be created, meeting bi-annually to oversee the treaty’s implementation, address disputes, and propose improvements.

Emergency meetings of the JTMC may be convened in case of urgent security or economic threats.

Article IV – Final Provisions

This treaty shall enter into force upon ratification by both national procedures.

The treaty shall remain in force for an initial period of 5 years, renewable by mutual agreement.

Amendments may be introduced by mutual consent of both parties.​

Signed by
For the Republic of Portugal: _______________________
For the Kingdom of Poland: _______________________​

Minister Rui, softly but firmly:
“We have highlighted the safeguard clauses for swift protection of domestic producers, and the maritime cooperation for securing our trade routes. This is a first draft, naturally open to your delegation’s suggestions. With your input, we can finalize this text before our departure.” ManBear