Poland inaugurated its second ever presidency of the Council of the European Union with an opening gala at the National Theatre in Warsaw. The country is tasked with guiding the Council’s work and representing all member states in negotiations with other EU institutions. The gala featured a performance by composer Radzimir Dębski, who wrote a new piece titled Ukłon inspired by Polish classical music. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the need for a strong Europe and highlighted Poland’s pro-European stance in his opening remarks. Notably absent from the event were President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Polish President Andrzej Duda.
The Polish presidency comes at a crucial time, with ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and at the Polish-Belarussian border. The focus of Poland’s presidency is expected to be on European security and defense. European Council President Antonio Costa praised Poland’s democracy and national identity, stating that they strengthen the entire European Union. He also emphasized the importance of providing continued support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. The presidency follows Hungary’s controversial tenure and comes at a time when Poland is taking center stage in EU politics.
The gala in Warsaw marked the beginning of Poland’s six-month presidency, which rotates among the EU’s 27 member states every six months. Hungary wrapped up its own controversial tenure in December, and Poland is now tasked with leading the Council’s work. The event featured performances by composer Radzimir Dębski and highlighted Poland’s commitment to a strong Europe. Prime Minister Tusk stressed the need for Europe to be powerful in order to survive, calling on all member states to work together to strengthen the EU.
Despite the absence of key figures such as President von der Leyen and President Duda, the gala in Warsaw was a celebration of Poland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union. Prime Minister Tusk emphasized the close connection between European and Polish values, asserting that Poland is the most pro-European nation on the continent. The presidency comes at a critical moment for Europe, with security and defense issues at the forefront of Poland’s agenda. The event highlighted Poland’s national wisdom and experience in guiding EU policies for the betterment of all member states.
The gala in Warsaw saw Polish and European leaders come together to mark the beginning of Poland’s second ever presidency of the Council of the European Union. Composer Radzimir Dębski performed a new piece inspired by Polish classical music, setting the tone for a presidency focused on European security and defense. European Council President Antonio Costa praised Poland’s democracy and national identity, underscoring the importance of continued support for Ukraine. The event showcased Poland’s commitment to a strong and united Europe, with Prime Minister Tusk calling on all member states to work together towards this common goal. Despite diplomatic spats and notable absences, the gala was a symbol of Poland’s central role in EU politics and its dedication to the values of the European Union.
