[Rockingham]

The key point: "Commercial production can start in three to five years, helped by the relatively high price of Russian gas . . . ."

Polish shale gas has strategic importance in that it offers Poland and Western Europe an alternative to being gouged by and dependent on Russian energy supplies. This appeals to both Poland's economic self-interest and her national psychology, which is proud of Poland's role as Europe's savior (at times) and as a bulwark against aggression by Mongols and Russians from the East and Islam from the South.

[Malesherbes]

Good comment. Poland has paid a very high price for its independence. I hope that Fortuna, the “wheel of fortune,” is turning in Poland’s favor in the 21st century.