The main goal of the talks was to strengthen the political and economic cooperation between Poland and Spain. The Governments consulted their positions in matters of the current European agenda and set the tasks and goals for cooperation for the next period. This resulted in adoption of a joint declaration from the 14th Polish-Spanish intergovernmental consultations.

In addition, the representatives of both Governments signed:

• Memorandum on Agreement between the Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Poland and the Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Spain concerning defence capabilities;
• Joint Declaration of the Minister of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda of the Kingdom of Spain and the Plenipotentiary of the Government of the Republic of Poland for the “Solidarity” Transport Hub.

Polish-Spanish solidarity

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has been ongoing for over five months, is viewed similarly by both countries. Both Poland and Spain emphasise that the Euro-Atlantic community needs to maintain solidarity with Ukraine. The Head of the Polish Government stressed how important it is that Ukraine maintain its sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.

Poland and Spain do everything in their power to make sure that this happens: both countries are involved in organising support and initiating the process of imposition of sanctions on Russia. In March 2022 and June 2022, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki visited Kyiv, while in April the capital of Ukraine was visited by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

Cooperation in practice

The European Commission presented a proposal concerning reduction of gas demand before the upcoming winter. Thanks to the cooperation between Poland and Spain, the original assumptions of the Commission were changed. This shows the unity and solidarity between the two countries. The new, much better solutions not only meet the expectations of both countries, but are also good for Europe. Spain perfectly understands the need to become independent from Russian gas.

Relations between the two countries are also reflected in actions aimed at ensuring the security of Europe. The Head of the Polish Government thanked for the deployment of Spanish air defence systems: “This was also very important and did not go unnoticed. These systems were deployed in Latvia, which constitutes a significant reinforcement for the eastern flank.”

Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation

This year’s intergovernmental consultations were held on the 30th anniversary of signing of the Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation, which regulates the relations between Poland and Spain following the political transformation. This event gives the bilateral relations between Poland and Spain a privileged nature, which is reflected by the regular and dynamic bilateral political dialogue conducted at all levels.

“Poland and Spain are joined by the common wish for us to be able to live in a safe environment, for Europe to have peace, safety, stability and security. We have jointly agreed on actions in the scope of combating inflation, energy policy and many other areas,” stressed the Head of the Polish Government.