The Chatham House Royal Institute of International Affairs is one of Europe's most renowned think tanks focusing on international relations. The Institute recognises individuals and organisations that have made a significant contribution to improving international relations in the previous year. 

Prime Minister Donald Tusk received the 'Person of the Year' award in recognition of his “unwavering commitment to restoring democracy in Poland, rebuilding institutions, as well as restoring and upholding the rule of law”.

Former British Prime Minister John Major recalled that Donald Tusk was a Solidarity activist, noting his efforts to ensure good relations between Poland and the UK, as well as his support for the embattled Ukraine.

“Donald Tusk shone a light on anti-democratic practices and was brave enough to put a stop to them in his country, despite a very hostile opposition. We need leaders like him in many countries - in Europe and beyond,”

John Major pointed out.

Minister of Foreign Affairs received the award on behalf of the Prime Minister. In his speech, he quoted Donald Tusk:

“Freedom, truth and the rule of law will not defend themselves. We have to fight for them every day and we have to know how to win, even if it takes a lot of time, a lot of sweat, sometimes even blood and tears. Today, Ukrainians are paying the highest price. The award previously went to heroic Ukrainian presidents - Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Viktor Yushchenko. That is why I am proud to be included in the ranks of such extraordinary people. Thank you for this honour.”

Minister Sikorski also participated in a debate with Chatham House Director Bronwen Maddox, which focused on Poland's relations with the UK and the challenges Europe faces in Ukraine.

The Chatham House Award was established in 2005. The list of its laureates to date includes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sir David Attenborough, Committee to Protect Journalists, Doctors Without Borders and Melinda Gates, co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

On Thursday, 18 July, Prime Minister Donald Tusk will visit London to meet the new British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Mr. Tusk will also attend the European Political Community (EPC) summit.

The Community is a platform for political coordination between European countries. To date, three meetings of the heads of state were held as part of its activities. 18 July will see the fourth meeting in the UK, hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Nearly 50 European leaders are expected to attend the London meeting to discuss a number of key issues, including the challenges of the war in Ukraine and irregular migration.