Community: the most important value

 

Over the next six months, Poland will shape the reality within the European Union. This happens at a particularly challenging time for Europe: Russian aggression against Ukraine, growing geopolitical tensions, and hybrid threats.

Our main focus is security, and our presidency’s motto is ‘Security, Europe!’

 - Donald Tusk emphasised in his address to the European Parliament on Wednesday.

Multidimensional security as the priority of Poland’s EU Council presidency is a direct response to the uncertainty surrounding Europe’s future directions.

Today, the most important words to be spoken here in the European Parliament are directed straight to Europeans: ‘Hold your heads up high’

- the Prime Minister went on.

The European Union comprises 27 member states and 450 million people who have worked together for years to build consensus and shape political realities at critical moments. We can take pride in being members of the European Union.

Europe was, is, and will be great. There is no reason for Europe to believe that we are mired in absurdity or existential troubles and problems

- added the Prime Minister.

He emphasized that Europe has no reason for inferiority complexes. Despite numerous challenges, crises, and occasional differing views, the European Union continues to develop, and Europeans live better lives.

As Europeans, we are capable of finding common ground every day and every year. It is this shared space that creates a sense of community

- said the Prime Minister.

He then outlined the seven pillars of security, which are the priorities of Poland’s EU Council Presidency: external, internal, informational, energy, economic, food, and health security.

 

External security: the ability to defend ourselves

 

Security in various dimensions is crucial for the daily lives of Europeans, particular member states, and the EU as a whole. This is a key challenge the EU must confront and statements from the new President of the United States should encourage Europe to become even stronger.

In terms of allied cooperation for the security of the Western world, the European Union, the United States, Canada, and all of NATO—we must continue not only to speak a common language but also to take action

- said the Prime Minister.

The European Union must now increase its defence capabilities. Europe cannot afford to economize on its security. Defence spending must be increased.

We must once again believe in our strength. This potential is a fact. We are strong and equal to the world’s greatest powers; we just need to believe it

- Donald Tusk emphasized.

The Polish Prime Minister’s visit to Strasbourg began with a meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola.

 

Internal security: protecting people and borders

 

Illegal migration is a challenge faced by many European countries. Poland will seek new solutions to enhance the security of the EU’s external borders in cooperation with international partners.

We can address the problem of illegal migration and broader internal security challenges in Europe without resorting to nationalist or xenophobic slogans

- assured the Prime Minister.

The EU should collectively work towards increasing its capacity to protect its population, respond to disasters, and provide humanitarian aid.

 

Informational security: resilience against foreign interference and disinformation

 

Russian and Belarusian disinformation reaches us daily. It is used against Europe to interfere in internal affairs. Europe must combat this, making efforts to prevent and mitigate the effects of hostile actions in cyberspace, including interference by third countries in the EU’s IT systems.

We must find a method to prevent interference and the destruction of our democracy and elections, particularly by Russian factories of lies and disinformation

- stressed the Prime Minister.

Poland will strive to strengthen coordination and cooperation among EU states in combating disinformation and manipulation. This also includes protecting children and youth from violence and falsehoods on the internet.

 

Economic security: ensuring safety and freedom of economic activity

 

The European economy must once again become the most creative and competitive.

Be the Parliament that dares to take on the great effort of deregulation during this term. Be brave; reject routine

- Donald Tusk urged MEPs.

The competitiveness of Europe depends on the deregulation efforts of the European Parliament. The Polish government intends to support businesses in adapting to dynamic changes related to climate and digital transformations, which are crucial for maintaining the EU’s prosperity. It will also focus on removing barriers and reducing bureaucratic burdens.

 

Energy security: advancing the energy transition

 

The European community must achieve energy independence. Europe cannot depend on Russian supplies. Some EU regulations have led to unacceptably high energy prices in certain member states.

Europe cannot lose the global competition or become a continent of naive people and ideas. If we go bankrupt, no one will care about the natural environment globally

- stressed the Prime Minister.

If Europe wants to remain competitive, it must reduce energy costs. Ensuring energy security in the EU today also means providing citizens with sufficient and affordable energy.

 

Food security: a competitive and resilient agriculture sector

 

Europe must ensure that agriculture is sustainable. Caring for farmers and their crops is crucial for our future.

Europe’s food security is not just about self-sufficiency in agricultural products. It also means having the best agriculture in the world, but it must be sustainable

- said the Prime Minister.

To ensure food security and appropriate incomes for farmers and entrepreneurs, a strong and supportive Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is essential.

I signaled the need for quick action to relieve some burdens on European farmers and agriculture, replacing mandates with incentives

- added Donald Tusk.

During its presidency, Poland will strive to shape a CAP that encourages, rather than compels, farmers to undertake environmentally friendly actions while highlighting the benefits of combating and preventing the effects of climate change, such as floods and droughts.

 

Health security

 

Mental health issues among children and youth are currently a significant challenge. The European Union must take concrete actions to protect the health of the youngest generation in the digital age.

Our future will depend on the mental well-being of those who are five or ten years old today. They are our greatest treasure

- said the Prime Minister.

Europe must also be adequately prepared for situations similar to the COVID-19 pandemic and other health challenges. Therefore, efforts to improve pharmaceutical security in the EU will be pursued, with a particular focus on patients’ perspectives.

 

Courageous decisions for Europe

 

In concluding his address to the European Parliament, Donald Tusk called on MEPs to show courage in shaping European law.

We remember in Poland the words that became the source of strength and victory for Solidarity, and thus, in some sense, for Europe during the night of communism in Poland—‘Do not be afraid’

- the Prime Minister told MEPs.

Following the Prime Minister’s address in the European Parliament, there was a debate on the priorities of Poland’s EU Council Presidency.