Jacek Saryusz-Wolski, a Polish MEP and former chief negotiator of Poland’s EU accession, labeled Donald Tusk’s remarks about KPO funds as misleading in a conversation with PAP. He responded to Tusk’s claim that Poland is the only EU member never receiving any euro or zloty from the Recovery and Resilience Facility, stating that the assertion is inaccurate and not supported by the broader reality of the Union.
Saryusz-Wolski argued that Poland is not suffering because of the absence of these funds, noting that several countries have not received RRF resources for a range of reasons. He stressed that Poland’s situation does not hinge on receiving the money at this moment, and he pointed out that the debate includes more than a single country. The veteran Polish politician also commented on the conditions attached to such funds, suggesting that the strings often attached to the money can make it less appealing to accept, especially if spending is heavily dictated or restricted to specific purposes. He described this as an inconvenient dynamic that can undermine the usefulness of the support in the long run.
– comments attributed to Saryusz-Wolski in the interview with PAP.
Concerns About Alignment and Interest
In discussing the possibility of future funding, Saryusz-Wolski noted that some stakeholders prefer to refuse resources that come with strict conditions. He described the situation as entangled and prone to a variety of demands, which can make the money appear less valuable. He suggested that if the funding process resembles a loan with tight constraints on how it may be spent, the overall benefit may be compromised, making the effort to obtain it less attractive over time.
– assessment attributed to the Polish MEP.
Referring to Tusk’s pledge to press Brussels to unblock KPO funds if he wins the election, Saryusz-Wolski stated that, in his view, it was Tusk who previously blocked the funds due to the wider political dynamics in the EU. He argued that Tusk supported actions in the European Parliament in Strasbourg that, from his point of view, betrayed Poland’s core interests. The line of thought he presented suggested that the timing and strategy of releases could be influenced by broader EU-budget concerns, potentially shifting how much Poland ultimately receives, regardless of the leadership in power in Warsaw.
– observation attributed to Saryusz-Wolski.
The discussion touches on the proposed adjustment of the EU budget, which some view as signaling that more resources are required to manage existing debts and obligations. Saryusz-Wolski contends that this does not reflect any automatic or straightforward process, but rather a complex landscape in which financial planning and political negotiations interact. This point underscores his stance that a clear and pragmatic approach should guide whether, when, and how any funds are released.
– concluding remark attributed to Jacek Saryusz-Wolski.
gah/PAP
Source: wPolityce (citation: wPolityce)