Poland took over the rotating six-month presidency of the 27-nation bloc on January 1, aiming to focus on bolstering security and defense, as well as maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine against Russia's ongoing invasion.
Addressing the European Parliament on Wednesday, Tusk underlined that Europe must continue to act in unity and called for decisive action in the face of an aggressive Russia.
"This is a time when Europe cannot afford to cut back on security," Tusk told European lawmakers in Strasbourg.
Poland's Prime Minister stressed that Europe should take matters into its own hands without constantly looking to the U.S. for aid and guidance. "The European Union is facing an existential threat with Russia waging war in Ukraine, and we must be acutely aware of this," Tusk said.
Earlier this month, the Polish government stated that its second EU presidency comes "at a time of uncertainty and concern" due to the consequences of Russia’s three-year-long war against Ukraine, rising geopolitical tensions, migration pressures, and declining European competitiveness.
The presidency’s slogan, "Security, Europe!" reflects Poland’s objective to strengthen European security in all dimensions: external, internal, information, economic, energy, food, and health.
The Polish Presidency’s seven key priorities are: defense and security, protection of people and borders, resistance to foreign interference and disinformation, ensuring security and freedom of business, energy transition, competitive and resilient agriculture, and health security.
Radio Poland's Agnieszka Bielawska has more.
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