Top EU official is in Poland for talks with new prime minister about unfreezing massive funds
The head of the European Union’s powerful Commission is in Warsaw for talks with Poland’s new prime minister, Donald Tusk, on restoring pro-EU policies that would allow for the bloc to release of billions of euros of funds for the country
Brussels froze pandemic recovery and cohesion funds for Poland amid a standoff with the previous EU-sceptic administration. It also launched a process that could lead to sanctions on any EU member disrespecting the democratic values of the 27-member bloc.
Tusk, a former EU Council chief, hinted this week, ahead of Friday talks with visiting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, that Poles may hear that day that the tens of billions of euros (dollars) of much-needed funds are being released.
Poland is to hold local elections in April, which could further strengthen the current government’s standing across the country.
Von der Leyen is accompanied on the visit by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, who is expected to discuss European security issues and support for Poland’s neighbour, Ukraine, which is fending off Russia’s invasion.