Introduction
20 years ago, on May 1st, 2004, Poland, along with Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Slovakia, and Slovenia, became member states of the European Union. Over the years, we have observed how this accession has strengthened both the member countries and the Union itself. It has facilitated the development of new infrastructure through various funds and investments. European citizens have benefited significantly from the freedom of movement of people, capital, services, and goods. These are just a few of the advantages of membership in this entity. Conversely, the European Union has been able to propagate its core values, such as democracy and human rights, on a broader scale, and become one of the world’s largest single markets.
On this auspicious occasion, in commemoration of one of the pivotal moments in Poland’s history, the Institute of the New Europe has recognized an opportunity to gain deeper insight into the perspectives and reflections of other member states regarding the significant contributions Poland has made to the Union over the past two decades, as well as how Poland’s membership has influenced the Union’s directions and policies, including those related to regional security, human rights, and the economy. We believe that acquainting ourselves with the viewpoints of fellow member states could significantly enhance our understanding of Poland’s position within the European Union and its broader implications.
The Institute was privileged to receive the reflections and opinions of the Ambassador of Belgium in Poland. Below, we present the content of the response provided by the Ambassador Rik Van Droogenbroeck. We eagerly anticipate further opportunities to engage with such esteemed representatives to glean additional insights on this matter.
Response to inquiry on Poland’s presence in the European Union by Embassy of Belgium
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the historic enlargement of the European Union, we reflect on the profound benefits of Poland’s EU membership, not only for Poland and the Polish people, but also for the Union as a whole. Poland’s accession in 2004 symbolized a formal return to the European family after decades of totalitarian rule. Since then, as one of the larger EU member states, Poland has played a substantial role in shaping EU policies.
Economically, EU membership has transformed Poland into a vibrant commercial hub and a magnet for foreign investments, to the benefit of both Poland and other EU countries. The expansion of the single market has given Polish products and services greater access across Europe and has significantly boosted the value of its industrial and agricultural production. In addition, infrastructural improvements have led to better domestic and international connectivity, thereby fostering increased trade, mobility and people-to-people exchanges.
Politically and in terms of security, Poland is a pivotal member state. It actively contributes to the EU’s foreign and security policy and is instrumental in coordinating the international political, military, and humanitarian support for Ukraine since the start of the brutal and illegitimate Russian aggression in February 2022.
Poland also has a vital role to play in key areas of the EU’s transformation, including the green transition. Belgian companies support these efforts, for instance by providing their expertise for the construction of Polish offshore wind parks in the Baltic Sea.
To face the numerous challenges that await us in the next twenty years, we will need Poland as a constructive and leading member state which takes up responsibility for the greater good of the EU. Its commitment to the collective success and resilience of the Union will ensure that the EU continues to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.
Ambassador Rik Van Droogenbroeck
Source link : https://ine.org.pl/en/reflections-on-polands-presence-in-the-european-union-by-ambassador-of-belgium/
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Publish date : 2024-06-05 03:50:43
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