Poland to launch nationwide voluntary defence training

WARSAW, Nov. 6 (Xinhua) -- Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz announced Thursday the launch of a pilot program aimed at voluntary defence training for citizens, which will begin on Nov. 22.

According to the defence ministry, the program called "In Readiness" will be open to all Polish citizens and conducted through 132 military units. Participants may choose from individual and group training, cooperation courses with the armed forces, reserve training, or voluntary military service.

The ministry expects about 100,000 people to join the program this year, with the total number projected to reach 400,000 by 2026.

At a press conference, Kosiniak-Kamysz said the initiative is part of efforts to enhance Poland's defence readiness and public preparedness for emergencies. ■