The dispute over Ukrainian grain deliveries to Poland is just one thread in the broader Polish-Ukrainian relationship, according to President Andrzej Duda who spoke in Poznań on Friday. He participated in the Common Future Congress for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, using the platform to address a mix of entrepreneurs, politicians, and civic leaders gathered for this event.
During his remarks, the President touched on the contentious issue of Ukrainian grain imports and referenced public statements by Polish and Ukrainian officials on the topic. He acknowledged that the ongoing media and political discussions may have unsettled some observers within the business community, and he urged patience as the matter is worked through at bilateral levels.
For Duda, cooperation with Ukraine and support for the Ukrainian people carry a historical dimension. He stressed the seriousness of the relationship, describing it as a historic moment between the two nations. He noted that the collaboration and solidarity shown in recent years extend beyond a single incident or policy debate.
He highlighted that Poland, through its aid and the efforts of Polish entrepreneurs, has helped Ukraine and its citizens affected by the war to an extent that builds durable interpersonal ties across borders. He stated that a single political or legal dispute should not erode this web of connections or the mutual trust it represents.
The President reiterated his stance on the grain issue, reiterating that it is a matter to be resolved through dialogue and cooperation within the region. He conveyed confidence that lessons learned from this challenge would inform stronger collaboration moving forward.
“I see a major role for Polish entrepreneurs here.”
Duda underscored the potential for Polish businesses to contribute to Ukraine’s recovery from the devastation caused by the war. He spoke at length about the importance of private sector involvement in rebuilding efforts, noting that Polish enterprises can help Ukraine regain critical capacity and accelerate its integration with European markets.
He pointed out that Ukraine has already integrated with Europe to a considerable degree, and that it will continue to play an increasingly significant part in the European economy and in Europe’s future. This trajectory, he suggested, also aligns with Poland’s own goals and regional stability.
From the President’s perspective, Poland has stood with Ukraine from the outset of the conflict. The country has provided support aimed at preserving Ukraine’s independence and, where feasible, stabilizing the Ukrainian economy. This stance, he emphasized, is closely linked to Ukraine’s aspirations to join the European Union and the reforms required to meet those standards.
In his view, Ukraine must address post-Soviet legacies, tackle corruption, implement transparent governance and economic practices, uphold the rule of law, and adopt climate-related regulations—an ambitious agenda for a country navigating war and transition. While acknowledging the challenges, Duda framed these reforms as opportunities with the potential for breakthrough progress.
He reiterated that Poland could assist Ukraine in its rebuilding effort by facilitating economic recovery and resilience, highlighting the pivotal role that Polish entrepreneurs can play in creating new opportunities and rebuilding confidence in the Ukrainian economy.
The overall message conveyed in Poznań was one of practical optimism: a call for constructive cooperation, sustained support, and a shared commitment to rebuilding Ukraine, with a visible channel for Polish business leadership to contribute meaningfully to the effort.