The European Commission may consider unblocking KPO funds for Poland even if Poland’s laws restoring the rule of law are vetoed by President Andrzej Duda, according to Michał Kobosko speaking to PAP after a meeting with EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders.
Kobosko on the restoration of the rule of law
EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders met with Michał Kobosko, head of the Polish Parliamentary Committee for EU Affairs, to discuss Poland’s progress. The gathering also included Agnieszka Pomaska of KO and Stanisław Zazdrowiemski, who leads the Speaker of the Sejm’s office. Kobosko described the atmosphere as constructive and said the discussions covered the restoration of the rule of law and the aim of rebuilding ties between Poland and the European Union.
During the talks, the status of restoring the rule of law and the potential unblockages of EU funds from the KPO and the Cohesion Fund were central topics. Reynders indicated the EC is open to dialogue with the Polish government and parliamentary majority while underscoring the need for concrete proposals and draft laws.
Does the EC have a complete picture of the situation?
Kobosko noted that the head of the EU parliamentary commission affirmed the EC has a full understanding of Poland’s political climate. Reynders acknowledged awareness of President Duda’s stance on rule of law issues and the possibility that some legal acts could face a presidential veto.
The MP stressed that the Commission is sympathetic yet expects that the laws restoring the rule of law will be enacted by the Sejm to move forward and unblock EU funds quickly, starting with the KPO and then the Cohesion Funds.
Kobosko reads between the lines
When asked if funds would be released after parliament passes laws restoring the rule of law even if President Duda vetoes them, Kobosko said the decision rests with the European Commission. He added that his reading of the situation suggests the Commission may be willing to release funds for Poland even in a scenario where the president’s veto stands.
The politician emphasized that the parliamentary majority seeks to improve ties with the EU and notes that Poland should not be treated on equal footing with Viktor Orbán’s Hungary. He reiterated that there is no justification for such an equality in the eyes of the new Polish government.
What did Kobosko say about political prisoners?
Asked whether the issue of political prisoners was discussed, Kobosko said he highlighted the situation when briefing the Commissioner. He stated that there are no political prisoners in Poland, while noting that two individuals currently imprisoned have been sentenced by final court verdicts. Reynders showed understanding of the arguments presented.
Kobosko added that Reynders is a strong candidate for head of the Council of Europe and that the Commissioner is actively seeking support from member states. He expressed the view that Reynders would lead an organization responsible for safeguarding human and civil rights.
The dialogue also touched on broader concerns within Poland regarding media independence and the integrity of public institutions, raising questions about the actions of various figures while underscoring the importance of rule of law in national governance.
In summary, Kobosko suggested that the European Commission may be open to unlocking funds for Poland, contingent upon concrete reform measures enacted by the Sejm and demonstrated commitment to the rule of law by the Polish government. The meeting underscored a mutual interest in improving relations with Brussels and advancing shared democratic principles.
Source attribution: wPolityce