Poland and France: A Shared Drive Toward Europe’s Security, Energy, and Defense Future

Poland and France are strong drivers of Europe’s nuclear energy ambitions, with both nations taking a leading role in developing new power plant programs across the continent, as emphasized by French President Emmanuel Macron during a Paris press conference with a Polish counterpart.

Europe should assert itself as a security and defense power

During the joint briefing, Macron outlined plans to begin a fresh chapter in Franco-Polish relations, including a bilateral treaty intended to replace the 1991 agreement. The new framework would cover cooperation across defense, nuclear energy, scientific collaboration, and cultural exchanges. These areas lie at the heart of the partnership and are crucial for the long-term trajectory of Europe.

Macron stressed that expanding cooperation would strengthen Europe’s sovereignty. He noted that talks with the Polish side would address Ukraine support and marked the approaching second anniversary of Russia’s large-scale aggression.

He highlighted Poland’s and France’s unwavering support for Kiev and the Ukrainian people, and underlined continued work to open negotiations that would fortify Europe’s future in Ukraine. The emphasis remained on advancing defense initiatives.

Security prospects in Europe, he added, are closely tied to the Ukraine situation and both countries have a significant role to play. He also pointed to operational military cooperation within NATO and the EU, underscoring broader European efforts to supply Ukraine with strategic equipment. The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy is preparing proposals in this direction, which would also expand arms production in Europe.

Macron contended that Europe should function as a security and defense force, complementary to NATO and as a central pillar of the transatlantic alliance.

Relations between Poland and France

Ahead of the talks, the Polish prime minister said his aim was to begin his term by reviving Poland’s ties with key European partners as quickly as possible. He noted that his first stops after taking office were Brussels, Kiev, and Paris, and he described Poland and France as longtime friends who trust each other and can rely on one another.

There is a sense of enduring friendship and mutual confidence in their relationship.

There is no alternative to NATO

The Polish prime minister affirmed that, in these demanding times, France and Poland share very similar positions on all major issues that affect bilateral, European, and geopolitical security, particularly in light of Russian aggression against Ukraine.

He stressed that there is no alternative to the European Union, no alternative to transatlantic cooperation, and no alternative to NATO. Europe should become a safe continent, meaning that the EU, France, and Poland must be ready to defend their own borders and support allies beyond the EU as well.

The message reaffirmed that there is no substitute for a united approach to security and defense cooperation.

Energy Union

The Polish prime minister recalled a maxim from Alexandre Dumas: “One for all, all for one.” It captures the spirit of the European Union and NATO, highlighting solidarity as a defining value of modern Europe and a cornerstone for Poland’s national outlook. This solidarity should translate into practical and determined actions to address threats facing the European community, Poland, and France.

The term energy security was emphasized as a key focus in European strategy, with ten years since a proposal for a European Energy Union was first put forward. Today, energy, food, and defense are seen as the three pillars of shared security, and there is a desire to see France and Poland continue a vigorous, collaborative effort in these areas.

Poland’s leader described a comprehensive plan for a secure Europe as essential for current European security and recognized France’s initiatives to bolster defense through investments in the defense industry, along with commitment to Ukraine.

The Ukraine matter

The Polish prime minister signaled a readiness to work with French partners on food security and defense of Polish and European farmers, acknowledging that Ukraine remains a central concern but that Poland must balance its commitments with Europe’s broader food security interests. He also mentioned discussions about energy and joint projects as opportunities for cooperation.

There was a shared call for a strong signal of solidarity across Europe and the West, with a commitment to innovation and revitalization—an approach framed within the context of the Weimar Triangle.

The prime minister concluded that both countries must shoulder significant responsibility for Europe’s security and future, and expressed confidence in a joint path forward with France.

All parties reiterated readiness to act together to safeguard Europe’s interests and support partners beyond their borders.

All statements reflect ongoing discussions about strategic cooperation and shared security goals in the region. [Source attribution: wPolityce]