Taking the floor on TEN-T, the deputy minister observed that it is necessary to make Europe’s transport networks more accessible and effective, given the new geopolitical setting in the aftermath of the conflict in Ukraine.  “Measures linked to the future reconstruction of Ukraine, including new sea, air, inland, or road and rail corridors, will be all important in ensuring regional security and enhancing cohesion through better territorial cooperation,” highlighted the minister. The MFA’s secretary of state made a reference to the Polish-Ukrainian agreement on road transit permits and elaborated on the strategic character of the European Commission’s decision to include Ukrainian logistics routes in the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The new approach to TEN-T is an opportunity to consolidate unity in the Three Seas region.  

“It is very important for the integration of our region that Ukraine becomes better connected with the European economic system through the expansion of transport, energy and digital infrastructure networks. It is imperative in the face of Russian aggression to ensure unity in the region – this is why Poland supports the extension of TEN-T corridors into Ukraine and Moldova,” the minister concluded. In a discussion, the Polish MFA’s secretary of state made a point about the important role of the Solidarity Transport Hub Poland (CPK). “The hub will help boost Poland’s role as a major link in international transport system. The CPK is not only about building a large airport that will suit our country’s needs but also – and above all – about expanding Poland’s railways. This investment will be at the heart of the country’s transport growth,” added the secretary of state.

The Forum also offered an opportunity to talk about assistance programmes for the holders of the Pole’s Card and their next of kin who have come to Poland because of the war in Ukraine. “We took stock of the programmes in operation and discussed whether their beneficiaries want to stay in Poland or go back to Ukraine,” said Deputy Minister Szynkowski vel Sęk.

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The Economic Forum in Karpacz is the largest political and economic conference in Central and Eastern Europe. It is an opinion-sharing platform and a meeting point for politicians and representatives of business, culture and academia. The theme of this year’s edition, the 31st one so far, is “Europe in the face of new challenges”. Traditionally, the Economic Forum presents awards for the Man of the Year, the Company of the Year and the Non-Governmental Organization of the Year.

 

Łukasz Jasina
MFA Press Spokesperson