In order to ensure the highest quality of our services, we use small files called cookies. When using our website, the cookie files are downloaded onto your device. You can change the settings of your browser at any time. In addition, your use of our website is tantamount to your consent to the processing of your personal data provided by electronic means.

Back

Videoconference ahead of extraordinary European Council meeting in Brussels

07.02.2023

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki took part in a videoconference with the President of the European Council Charles Michel and the leaders of Belgium, Malta, Bulgaria and Hungary. The politicians discussed topics that will come up at the upcoming European Council meeting - Russian aggression against Ukraine, economic issues and migration. Working meetings prior to the European Council meetings serve primarily to coordinate further discussions, exchange views on common issues and raise any concerns. The next European Council meeting is scheduled for 9 and 10 February 2023.

Wideokonferencja.

Support of Ukraine

Poland sees and understands the sacrifice of Ukrainian women and men for a common future with a free and democratic Europe. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki emphasised during the talks that Ukraine's future lies in the European Union. He encouraged the continuation of EU support for Ukraine in its accession process and further reforms, as well as an increase in comprehensive ongoing support.

The Prime Minister also indicated the need to adopt another package of sanctions on Russia as soon as possible and to speed up work on confiscating frozen Russian assets and using them in the process of rebuilding Ukraine.

The aggressor has to pay an increasing cost for its aggression. By imposing further sanctions, Europe is strangling the potential of the Russian army and significantly limiting the possibilities for further conflict against Ukraine.

Economic issues

The head of the Polish government also held talks with Charles Michel and leaders of other EU countries about possible measures to strengthen the EU's long-term competitiveness. The discussion focused in particular on simplifying the rules for granting state aid in the EU, as well as budgetary solutions to increase investment in the clean technology sector. 

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has opted for solutions that would enable member states to make an energy transition under new circumstances, given the need to move away from fuel imports from Russia. He expressed hope that possible new EU financial instruments would ensure a geographically balanced development of the clean tech sector.

Migrations

The leaders also held a discussion on how to deal with the increased influx of migrants into the EU in recent months, not only in the context of war refugees, but also illegal border crossings on the southern and Balkan routes.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, speaking to European leaders, raised the issue of EU support for refugees from Ukraine and frontline states. Poland has been involved in helping Ukrainian refugees since the beginning of the war. According to OECD estimates, last year we allocated nearly 1.5% of GDP for this purpose. 

Poland emphasises the need to prevent illegal migration and to strengthen the protection of the external borders of the European Union. We also draw attention to the phenomenon of instrumentalisation of migrants by third countries in order to exert pressure on the EU. In response, Poland reacted promptly and today our borders are safe - we have built a barrier, the border is constantly patrolled. We have reinforced the border with Belarus and the Kaliningrad region with additional measures. 

{"register":{"columns":[]}}