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Ukraine's EU accession is a key priority for Poland, says Paweł Kowal

07.10.2024 19:10
During the second edition of the Common Future Congress in Poznań (western Poland), Paweł Kowal, chairman of the Council for Cooperation with Ukraine, stressed that Ukraine's accession to the EU is a crucial priority for Poland. He underscored the need to support exports and investments while ensuring the safety of Polish companies operating in Ukraine, especially in light of the current geopolitical challenges.
Chairman of the Council for Cooperation with Ukraine, Paweł Kowal, during the opening of the COMMON FUTURE Ukraine Recovery Congress at the Poznań International Fair in Poznań, October 7, 2024.
Chairman of the Council for Cooperation with Ukraine, Paweł Kowal, during the opening of the COMMON FUTURE Ukraine Recovery Congress at the Poznań International Fair in Poznań, October 7, 2024.Jakub Kaczmarczyk/PAP

In his inaugural speech, Kowal emphasized that Poland is creating a favorable environment for investments in Ukraine through significant exports of Polish goods to the country.

“We often do not appreciate this, but when I talk with my counterparts, it leaves a particular impression on American partners. When I say that 30% of the EU's exports to Ukraine come from Poland, they respond: you are lucky! Exports need to be supported because they lead to investments,” said Paweł Kowal.

According to him, a key issue is ensuring the safe operation of Polish companies in Ukraine. “The fundamental political task today is to ensure that Ukraine is free from Russian attacks,” Kowal believes.

Discussing support for Polish enterprises, Kowal informed that work is underway on a substantial financial instrument for companies operating in Ukraine, with possible support reaching up to 800 million euros.

In the context of Poland's presidency in the EU Council, Kowal stated that “the best way to reduce investment risks is to quickly open the doors to the European Union for Ukraine.”

Andrii Teliupa, the Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, encouraged Polish companies to invest in Ukraine, declaring, “We are ready to support Polish capital and Polish entrepreneurs.”

The congress aims to be a platform for discussing the needs of the Ukrainian economy and opportunities for collaboration with Polish partners. The event is attended by approximately 1,000 participants, including entrepreneurs, local government officials, and representatives of the government, and includes 40 debates with 100 speakers.

Source: IAR/PAP/@rada_plua

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