The meeting came after the two countries signed a treaty on enhanced cooperation and friendship in the northeastern French city of Nancy on May 9, 2025.
At a joint news conference, Tusk said Poland and France share the view that "the world has changed" and that Europe must act together to address key challenges, including support for Ukraine, defence, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
"Europe must believe in its own strength and capabilities because no one will do it for us," Tusk said. "If we do not ensure our own security, no one else will."
He said Poland and France were aligned in their determination to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion and to maintain strong transatlantic ties.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (right) and French President Emmanuel Macron (left) attend a joint news conference in Gdańsk on Monday. Photo: PAP/Adam Warżawa
Tusk also thanked France for its swift response after Russian drones entered Polish airspace in September last year, calling it proof that NATO allies can rely on one another in times of crisis.
"In today’s world, predictability, mutual loyalty and full solidarity are in short supply, which is why we value the durability of Polish-French friendship," he said.
Macron said relations between the two countries were at a "historic level" and added that Europe's freedom depends on its ability to defend itself and maintain independence, Poland's PAP news agency reported.
He also warned against a resurgence of nationalism that could divide European nations.
During the summit, Poland and France signed a joint declaration on deepening strategic cooperation in areas including security, defence, the economy and culture.
The document underscores continued support for Ukraine and the need to strengthen Europe’s military capabilities in response to threats from Russia.
The two sides also pledged closer military cooperation, efforts to develop Europe's defence industry and joint action to boost capabilities within NATO and the European Union, including in cybersecurity and countering hybrid threats.
Tusk said discussions also covered cooperation on energy, including nuclear power, as well as joint military exercises and space projects. He declined to provide details of talks on security cooperation and nuclear deterrence, citing their "sensitive nature."
'Most loyal partner'
He added that the French military presence in Poland is already a reality under allied arrangements and could serve as a basis for expanded defence cooperation. He also described France as Poland's "most loyal partner" in protecting its eastern border and supporting Ukraine.
The declaration also highlights plans to boost economic ties, increase technological sovereignty within the EU and expand cooperation in culture, science and civil society.
Poland and France announced plans to hold a joint cultural season in 2027 to showcase shared heritage and contemporary culture, while strengthening ties between institutions, artists and civil society.
At their joint news conference in Gdańsk, Tusk and Macron also urged a swift end to the US-Israeli war with Iran, with the Polish prime minister warning that the conflict risks weakening support for Ukraine in its defence against Russia.