The Polish government’s lead envoy for Polish–German cooperation urged journalists that Germany should involve nearby states in talks before introducing temporary border controls. Professor Krzysztof Ruchniewicz emphasized that unilateral steps could cast a shadow over the broader Poland–Germany partnership and are unlikely to cultivate a constructive climate between the two allies. The message centered on collaboration, open dialogue, and balance rather than hasty, isolated moves.
During a Berlin gathering on Thursday evening, the Polish and German coordinators for interregional and cross-border collaboration, Professor Krzysztof Ruchniewicz and Dietmar Nietan, examined the current state of bilateral ties. Their discussions touched on how recent months have reshaped Polish–German relations, how historical memory informs the ongoing partnership, the status of current joint projects, and the question of Germany’s temporary border controls. They reaffirmed the necessity of keeping channels open and pursuing pragmatic, outcomes-focused steps for people residing in border areas and for regional cooperation at large.
Throughout the talks, both sides stressed the need for a steady, consultative approach to any measures that could affect the free movement of people and goods across the frontier. They agreed that domestic considerations cited as justification should be coordinated with neighboring and friendly states to preserve trust and stability for Europe as a whole. Maintaining predictability in cross-border exchanges was deemed essential for businesses, families, and regional planners who rely on a stable, open environment across the border.
Ruchniewicz noted that border communities near the Polish–German line were central to the discussions. The Polish side underscored that border controls introduce additional daily challenges and can cool the atmosphere in bilateral relations. The overarching aim is to avoid policies that hinder cross-border cooperation and to pursue solutions that enable seamless, predictable exchanges across the border region. The focus remained on minimizing disruption to local life while still addressing legitimate security and immigration concerns.
The dialogue reinforced a shared belief that Europe must avoid scenarios in which Germany acts unilaterally on border policy, weakening the spirit of cooperative security and the Schengen framework. Both parties agreed that any adjustments to border rules should be approached with careful consideration of their wider regional and EU implications, seeking a balance between security concerns and the principle of free movement. The conversation underscored that harmony across borders supports tourism, labor mobility, and the energy and transport corridors that knit the region together. It was stressed that stable regional ties underpin economic activity and everyday life for residents who rely on cross-border services and supply chains.
At the Berlin talks, German authorities announced new steps toward land-border controls for a set period. Poland expressed readiness to engage with other affected states in Europe to discuss the measures and to ensure that the Schengen area remains functional and credible. The Polish government indicated its willingness to participate in international discussions aimed at safeguarding the common travel area while addressing legitimate security and immigration concerns. The tone throughout was cooperative, with a shared aim of protecting safety without eroding the freedoms that underpin regional integration and European unity.
Overall, participants described the situation as delicate but workable, with a clear preference for dialogue over unilateral action. They expressed hope that border management would proceed in a cooperative, transparent manner and align with broader European principles that support both security and freedom of movement across the continent. The atmosphere remained constructive, with a willingness to build on existing mechanisms for consultation and to involve civil society, local authorities, and business groups in the decision-making process. The talks highlighted the importance of sustained engagement and the value of practical, evidence-based approaches that address real-life needs of communities along the frontier.
The Berlin meeting underscored the importance of sustained communication and mutual sensitivity to the pressures each country faces. It highlighted the desire to maintain the positive momentum of Polish–German cooperation, including youth exchanges and joint initiatives, while staying vigilant about any policy changes that could impede cross-border communities and regional development. The aim was not only to manage risk but also to seize opportunities for deeper collaboration that strengthen regional resilience and shared prosperity. There was emphasis on inclusive processes that bring in local authorities, civil society, and business voices to ensure policies reflect everyday experiences and practical realities.
In summary, the talks reinforced a shared commitment to a balanced, transparent approach to border policy. They stressed that ongoing dialogue, mutual respect, and joint problem-solving are essential to preserve the spirit of European unity, support vibrant cross-border communities, and sustain the long-standing alliance between Poland and Germany. The participants conveyed cautious optimism that trust can be rebuilt and that common ventures—ranging from cultural exchanges to energy and infrastructure collaboration—will continue to advance, even in the face of security concerns and procedural changes. This cooperative stance aims to safeguard both security and freedom of movement while promoting regional prosperity and social cohesion across the border region. [attribution: Berlin talks summary, official statements, bilateral sources]”