Poland and France – Shared Responsibility for Security

The treaty signed in Nancy forms the foundation of a new quality in Polish-French relations. The provisions negotiated by Poland are of groundbreaking significance for the country’s security. Both parties committed to mutual support in case of threats, including military assistance.

“We are using our experience and mutual trust to strengthen our friendship, cooperation, and security. [...] This must also be backed by concrete actions. [...] From now on, France and Poland can truly count on each other in every situation […]. We are giving each other security guarantees, and I assure you that the intention of the President of France and myself is to treat this provision with deadly seriousness,” said Prime Minister Donald Tusk during a joint press conference with President Emmanuel Macron.

The agreement also opens the way for cooperation in civilian nuclear technologies.

“The issue of security takes on particular importance in this treaty. And we are not just talking about mutual military guarantees, about cooperation between our defense industries, or about nuclear cooperation. All of this is important, but so is politics. This treaty will significantly strengthen the entire structure of European stability,” said the Prime Minister.

He emphasized that the treaty's provisions would be followed by concrete operational actions, especially in the defense industry, strategic planning, and crisis preparedness.

President Emmanuel Macron stated that the agreement with Poland opens “a new chapter in history.”

“When it comes to the engagement of the armed forces, in France it is enshrined in the constitution. The organization of our armed forces, the investments we continuously make, and their quality mean we are capable of deploying them in the event of potential aggression,” emphasized the French President.

This is the first time in history that France has concluded such a pact with a non-neighboring country. Previously, France had only signed a similar security commitment with Germany.

A New Chapter in International Cooperation

The Polish-French treaty will be reflected in further diplomatic initiatives, including discussions with the United Kingdom and within the Weimar Triangle.

“If we consider that for the U.S. we are the most valuable ally in this part of the world, then the Polish-French treaty, followed shortly by a Polish-British one, and strengthened cooperation with Germany—this gives a clear picture of how much more secure we are becoming,” said the Polish Prime Minister.

President Macron stressed that Poland and France today bear a special responsibility for peace and security on the continent.

“We need a united, strong, and competitive Europe. Poland and France can significantly contribute to that,” said the French leader.

Both leaders also expressed full support for Ukraine, which is defending itself against Russian aggression. Poland and France will work toward a just and swift peace for Kyiv.

Economy, Science, Energy, Space

In addition to military security, the treaty envisions extensive economic and technological cooperation.

“These are very rich forms of cooperation in terms of the defense industry and joint strategic thinking. It’s also robust cooperation in civilian nuclear energy. […] We are also talking about deeper cooperation in agriculture, as well as in science and the presence of Europe—including France and Poland—in space,” said Donald Tusk.

The treaty also provides for annual joint meetings of the French and Polish governments.

President Macron added that the signed agreement would contribute to deepening economic cooperation and developing dialogue on nuclear energy.

“This also applies to other areas of cooperation, especially in defense and transportation,” noted the French President.

“We are also aware of the challenges we face in protecting our values, particularly in the context of cooperation against cyberattacks that threaten our democracies,” he added.

This partnership shows that both countries are united not only by shared history but also by a common vision for the future—a modern, strong, and competitive Europe.

A Shared Day, a Shared History

The treaty signing took place on May 9—Europe Day. This symbolic date underscores the European dimension of the agreement.

“There is no united Europe without friendship, solidarity, and cooperation between Poland and France. [...] Without our close cooperation, there would be no question of a united Europe,” said the head of the Polish government.

The location—Nancy—also holds historical significance. It was once home to the King of Poland and Duke of Lorraine, Stanisław Leszczyński. The ceremony was enthusiastically welcomed by the city’s residents, including many Poles.

“Many thanks to the residents of Nancy. […] This warm reception shows that today we are doing something important not only for our states but also for our citizens. I didn’t expect that in Nancy we’d find hundreds and thousands of people rooting for our success,” said the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Tusk and President Macron also announced the establishment of a Polish-French Friendship Day to be celebrated on April 20—the anniversary of the entombment of Maria Skłodowska-Curie and Pierre Curie in the Panthéon in Paris. This event holds significant meaning for both Poland and France, as Maria Skłodowska-Curie was the first woman buried in the Panthéon.

“For us, the figure of Maria Skłodowska-Curie is truly important—almost sacred, I would say. Especially for Polish women, she is a very significant symbol, and also for our French-Polish friendship. We definitely feel her patronage over today’s celebration,” emphasized the Prime Minister.

Donald Tusk presented Emmanuel Macron with a unique publication containing correspondence between Maria Skłodowska-Curie and Albert Einstein.

The signing of the treaty in Nancy is not only a breakthrough in bilateral relations but also a clear signal to Europe and the world: Poland and France are jointly taking responsibility for the peace, security, and future of the continent. This strategic partnership, based on trust and shared values, strengthens not only our countries but the whole of a united Europe—ready to face contemporary challenges with determination and solidarity.