Donald Tusk, Poland’s new prime minister, promised to prioritise the rule of law and responsible use of European funds in a bid to mend relations with the European Union.
Tusk, a member of the centre-right European People’s Party, aims to move past the eight-year-long disputes between Warsaw and Brussels under the previous Law and Justice (PiS) government.
The conflicts involved issues such as judicial independence, election interference, and LGBTQ+ rights.
The clash resulted in a record fine from the European Court of Justice and a halt to Poland’s recovery plan, totalling €34.5 billion in loans and €25.3 billion in grants.
Additionally, over €76 billion in cohesion funds were withheld by the European Commission for development projects in Poland.
Tusk, aligned with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, seeks a fresh start with Brussels and a swift resolution to unlock the frozen funds.
Before his appointment, the Commission released €5.1 billion in “pre-financing” for immediate use in energy independence programs. Tusk pledged to use the money responsibly.
While this initial funding has no strings attached, the remaining €60 billion is contingent on meeting three “super milestones”, including reforms related to the controversial Supreme Court disciplinary chamber.
Tusk, part of a three-party coalition, plans legislative changes to address these issues and unlock the frozen funds. However, potential challenges from President Andrzej Duda, affiliated with PiS and holding veto power, may impede reform efforts.
Poland submitted a payment request for €6.3billion under its recovery plan, triggering an internal Commission process to assess progress on the “super milestones”. A positive evaluation will be sent to the Council for final approval, allowing funds to flow. Von der Leyen expressed optimism about resolving these issues and proceeding with the first payment, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts.
