Poland and Lithuania Discuss Potential EU Treaty Changes Amid Security Concerns
A delegation in Vilnius explored the growing tensions around proposed amendments to European Union treaties and what they could mean for member states. The discussions involved high-level officials and focused on ensuring that any reforms align with the security needs of the region, especially in light of ongoing challenges facing Europe today.
The conversations addressed the rapid pace at which some changes were being proposed by the European Parliament. The aim was to push for careful, deliberate consideration rather than rushing to implement significant treaty amendments. The participants stressed that hastened changes could heighten risk and create gaps in energy security and national defense that no country can afford to ignore.
In this context, the Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs noted the importance of building a coordinated stance with European partners. He emphasized that a series of visits would be undertaken to coordinate a common position with other states that share concerns about the timing and scope of treaty revisions.
The minister underscored that it is essential to exchange views on the threats associated with these proposed amendments. Early discussions with the European affairs leadership reinforced the view that Poland and Lithuania held very similar positions. Both countries favored a more cautious approach and argued against rushing into negotiations before addressing other pressing security concerns.
It was highlighted that debate about EU treaty changes must occur in a context where energy security and broader security threats remain front and center for all member states. The goal is to ensure that any constitutional adjustments do not divert attention from urgent national and regional security priorities.
On the topic of transferring powers within the EU framework, it was noted that altering treaty arrangements could shift many competencies to supranational institutions. This would bring more areas of daily life under the EU umbrella, a prospect that would reduce national influence over domestic policy and governance. The minister insisted that it cannot be acceptable for a state to have limited control over the lives of its citizens.
The minister also spoke about Lithuania’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Jovita Nelupsiene, who is set to become the EU Ambassador to the United States next year. This appointment was welcomed as a potential catalyst for stronger transatlantic cooperation and a more united stance on EU–US relations in the years ahead.
Szynkowski vel Sęk, a name commonly used for the Polish minister, also referred to the ongoing discussions around the OSCE summit slated to begin in Skopje, North Macedonia. He clarified that neither he nor the members of his ministry would participate in this particular event, noting that several countries had adopted similar positions, including Lithuania, in relation to attending the summit. He characterized some discussions as unacceptable when they involved individuals perceived as aggressors on the international stage.
From Vilnius, the Polish foreign minister announced plans to travel to Riga, Latvia, to continue engaging with partners on the same set of concerns raised in Vilnius. The aim remains to address the threats associated with rapid changes to European treaties and to align perspectives across regional partners.
In related coverage, discussions in Europe about the stance of various governments on European treaties continued to be a focal point, highlighting concerns that the debate could shift attention away from essential safety matters and undermine the stability that European nations strive to maintain in a time of evolving security threats.
— Head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: The position of the Czech government on European treaties is close to that of Poland. The debate distracts from safety
— The new head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs leaves for several European capitals: the proposal to change the treaties would be a dangerous phenomenon
— Minister Szynkowski vel Sęk in Brussels: Poland is exemplary in fulfilling its obligations within the North Atlantic Alliance
Mon/PAP/X