English Section

Poland, Norway to intensify support for Ukraine

28.02.2024 22:30
NATO members Poland and Norway have announced plans to intensify military assistance, reconstruction aid and economic support for Ukraine.
Polands Prime Minister Donald Tusk (right) and his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Stre (left) meet in Warsaw on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024.
Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk (right) and his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Støre (left) meet in Warsaw on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024.Photo: PAP/Radek Pietruszka

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted the initiative during a meeting in Warsaw with his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Støre on Wednesday.

The declaration is a significant move to bolster support for the embattled nation, the two leaders said.

The meeting between Tusk and Støre underscored a concerted effort by Poland and Norway to strengthen regional security, showcasing the depth of their bilateral relations and their role within the broader NATO framework, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

Støre's visit to Warsaw came as part of a broader effort by the Polish government to strengthen ties with Nordic countries, with a keen focus on security concerns and mutual interests.

Tusk emphasized the priority Poland places on its partnership with Norway. The collaboration extends beyond political alignment, with both nations engaging in significant trade and technological partnerships, and viewing this relationship as a model for international cooperation.

The talks also covered the strategic importance of military security in the Baltic Sea region, where Poland plans to work closely with Norway and other countries including Sweden and Finland.

Tusk praised the advanced and effective defense assets acquired from Norway, underscoring the direct impact of this cooperation on Poland's security.

The Norwegian prime minister commended Poland for its substantial support to Ukrainian refugees.

Reflecting on Norway's proximity to Russia, Støre reiterated NATO's role, saying that "NATO is not a threat to anyone. NATO guarantees collective security."

Both leaders stressed the importance of wise and responsible decisions to enhance defense capabilities and support for Ukraine.

They pledged continued collaboration to face common challenges, highlighting the strong ties between their countries, including economic contributions by Polish workers in Norway.

Tusk, addressing broader European security, asserted that Europe has the potential to ensure peace and security for itself and its neighbors.

He pointed out Europe's demographic, economic and technological advantages over Russia, advocating for a stronger and more unified European stance on military security.

"I am pleased that we share the same view with Norway," Tusk said. "We want to motivate others to further intensify support for Ukraine in terms of arms, reconstruction funds, and sustaining the Ukrainian economy. We will cooperate bilaterally and discuss the details."

The discussions also touched on the concerns about migration pressure orchestrated by Moscow, with Tusk cautioning against potential provocations in Russia's westernmost Kaliningrad region.

(rt/gs)

Source: IAR, PAP