"Poland actively supports the EU’s unified approach to countering the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic within the framework of the so-called Team Europe approach. The EU’s significant contribution to the initiative which exceeded EUR 30 billion is a testament to our effectiveness. We believe that the geographical balance of the EU’s involvement should be maintained, with special regard to the needs of our immediate neighbours, particularly the Eastern Neighbourhood countries,” stressed the deputy chief of Polish diplomacy. He also highlighted the need for the EU’s rapid and coordinated actions for partner countries, and a close cooperation with other international organisations and financial institutions. Deputy Minister Paweł Jabłoński underscored that it is necessary to pursue an effective information strategy that serves to promote the EU’s and its member states’ actions to combat the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in developing countries and to counter disinformation about the EU. The deputy minister outlined Poland’s contribution to the Team Europe approach that has so far included payments to international institutions, redirecting part of Polish bilateral projects, and material assistance in the form of humanitarian convoys.

The ministers’ video conference was preceded by a discussion with the Director-General of the World Health Organisation Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. During the discussion, the ministers learnt about the WHO most important observations on the fight against Covid-19. The participants decided that using multilateral mechanisms, as well as a coordinated and close cooperation with governments of partner countries are necessary in the fight against global effects of the coronavirus pandemic. They also expressed their concern about the growing trend of global food insecurity that has been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic.

During the meeting, the ministers also discussed the state of play in negotiations of the EU’s new agreement with the ACP states, as well as the European financial architecture for sustainable development under the Multiannual Financial Frameworks. 

MFA Press Office

photo: Tymon Markowski / MFA