Russia and Poland to end centuries of enmity and distrust

Polish and Russian leaders vowed Monday to open a new chapter in their relations, a move that could eventually end centuries of enmity and distrust. The pledge came after talks in Warsaw between President Dmitri A. Medvedev of Russia and his Polish counterpart, Bronislaw Komorowski.

It was the first official visit to Poland in nine years by a Russian president. With Poland now having increasing influence in NATO, which it joined in 1999, and the European Union, which it joined in 2004, New York Times reports.

Medvedev is headed into talks with Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski and will oversee the signing of a package of deals that will intensify trade and other economic exchange.

The visit comes amid a Russian push to modernize its economy and improve its ties with several Western powers, including the European Union and NATO. Poland belongs to both groups.

Medvedev is accompanied by his wife Svetlana and a large delegation of business people, Bloomberg says.