Polish Prime Minister Visits London, 18 April

The visit to London on 18 April by the Polish Prime Minster, Donald Tusk, points to a further step in engagement prior to the Polish presidency of the EU Council which starts on 1 July.

This follows the support for EU’s growth strategy “Europe 2020” by the UK and Poland. Addressing economic growth in Europe is one of the main priorities of the forthcoming presidency. In March, both countries were among the nine EU signatories of a letter to the EU Council President and the EU Commission setting out four priorities for the post-crisis economic growth plan: opening-up the single market for services, opening-up global trade, helping start-up companies and promoting innovation.

The UK and Poland recognise their common attitudes and interests in terms of EU’s economic policy. There are good conditions for cooperation between both countries to address the economic and financial crisis in the EU through supporting growth, employment and financial stability. Both governments consider the discussion about the next EU budget for 2014-2020 as an opportunity to unlock potential and sustainable reform in Europe.

At the Press Conference after the meeting both prime ministers explained that they share similar perspectives towards the situation in North Africa and talked about the aspirations of Arab Spring. Poland’s membership in NATO and contribution in Afghanistan have been subjects of common forward thinking.

The meeting also reveals that British Polish relations have real significance for both countries and in the future of Europe. The UK and Poland strive to maintain good spirit in the debate about further investment in the EU’s Eastern partnership.

The British PM noted the huge contribution made by Poles living here. The Polish PM confirmed the friendship between the two countries.

Written by Milena Borden

Designed and Edited by Teresa Potocka