Today marks the 29th anniversary of the Gdansk agreement, reached by the communist authorities and workers striking against policies of the ruling government.
The accord initiated the process of transition to democracy. The document was signed by the then-deputy head of the Council of Ministers, Mieczyslaw Jagielski, whereas, Solidarity icon Lech Walesa represented the labour force. Walesa was pleased with the outcome of the talks: "We are glad that the talks – difficult at first – were marked by increasing understanding and search for the best solution for this difficult situation in the country. I can, with content, say that our conflict has been concluded without the use of force, by means of debate,” he said in a speech following the signing of the agreement.
“We have shown that, willing, Poles can meet common ground, it is therefore a success of both sides. We will remember. And we hope that the agreed stipulations will be complied with," added Walesa, laying a commemorative wreath at the historic Gate 2 where the labour strikes began.
Following the signing of the agreement, Lech Walesa called off strikes that had erupted throughout the country almost two months earlier. (ab/mmj)