Speaking during the 17th European Economic Congress in Katowice, southern Poland, Trzaskowski described AI as not only important for the country’s economy but also vital for its sovereignty and security.
He said AI "must become an integral part of the work of the National Security Council and the National Security Bureau."
Trzaskowski, who represents the ruling Civic Coalition (KO), argued that technology, like capital, "has its nationality," and that Poland must ensure independence in this area.
"We welcome all investment projects, including American ones; they contribute to our security, but we must also ensure that Europe and Poland can develop their own technologies and skills," he told the conference.
The mayor of Warsaw framed AI development as a matter of strategic autonomy, stating that it is "a sovereignty issue" and one of the most important priorities for Poland’s future competitiveness.
During his address, Trzaskowski also emphasised the need for a realistic and socially responsible energy transition, noting that cheap and accessible energy is essential for modern industry and digital services.
He said that Poland's energy mix must evolve from relying on coal and gas to incorporating nuclear power and renewables.
However, he insisted the transition must be gradual, support job creation and avoid social disruption.
The candidate reiterated his plan to establish a defence technology industrial district in the southeastern Podkarpackie region, state news agency PAP reported.
According to Trzaskowski, investment in the area could reach PLN 100 billion (USD 25 billion) over the next decade, backed by growing state orders and a clearer national industrial strategy.
'End of naïve globalisation'
He also criticised what he called the "end of naïve globalisation," urging Poland and the European Union to boost their domestic industrial capacity and demand a level playing field with non-EU competitors.
"If we have strict standards, everyone must comply," he said, calling for "economic patriotism" and mechanisms such as carbon border taxes and tighter supply chain oversight.
Trzaskowski argued that EU independence is especially needed in key areas such as ammunition and pharmaceutical production.
On domestic policy, he advocated for regulatory reform to boost Poland’s competitiveness. He pledged to push for successful deregulation if elected, calling for legal changes such as eliminating penalties for unintentional administrative errors, shortening tax obligation limitation periods, and curbing the abuse of pre-trial detention in economic cases.
At the EU level, he warned against imposing further economic burdens on businesses, such as ETS2—the second phase of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System.
Scheduled for 2027, ETS2 will extend CO2 emissions pricing to sectors not previously covered, including road transport and buildings, as part of the bloc’s climate policy.
This year’s European Economic Congress is being held under the slogan "Together for a Safe Future" as part of the Polish presidency of the EU Council.
The event focuses on themes including European competitiveness, green transition, geopolitics, investment, and technological innovation.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP