Tusk described the presidency as a breakthrough in convincing EU countries, leaders, and institutions to abandon the long-held belief in an inviolable, peaceful Europe and instead prepare for a more precarious future.
A new era of European readiness
“It was extremely difficult to shift the EU into a state of mobilisation - into thinking seriously about how to defend itself against potential threats. The Polish presidency was a breakthrough in this regard,” he said during a press conference in Brussels.
The prime minister also highlighted progress beyond security.
Poland leads EU reform and defence shift
“I am very pleased that, during the Polish presidency, deregulation ceased to be merely a slogan - and concrete work began on delivering real deregulation measures,” Tusk added, emphasizing efforts to streamline EU policies and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Reflecting on Poland’s role, he said, “Times have changed. It was Poland that first reminded Europe - and made everyone realise - that the European Union must take responsibility for its own borders and its own defence capabilities.”
As Denmark takes over the EU presidency on July 1, Tusk said his government would now concentrate fully on domestic affairs.
The handover, he suggested, would ease pressures on Poland while allowing continued attention to European interests.
(mp)
Source: IAR/PAP/X/@POLAND25EU