Polish Senatorial Delegation with Romania: A Shared Focus on Community, Security, and Cooperation
The Senate Marshal Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska addressed Polish communities in Bucharest, urging leaders to rise as voices of influence both within their diaspora and across their wider neighborhoods. The gathering, held at the Polish Embassy in Romania, highlighted the Senate’s ongoing commitment to supporting Poles abroad and nurturing Polish culture beyond national borders.
Senate leadership reiterated that assisting Poles overseas remains a top priority. The meeting underscored the sense that backing for diaspora communities settles at the heart of parliamentary duties, offering tangible outcomes rather than mere intentions.
Kidawa-Błońska announced that the Senate has earmarked PLN 10 million for Polish projects this year. While she acknowledged that this sum might not meet every expectation, it would fund soft projects designed to unlock the potential of Polish communities abroad and encourage active participation among Poles living outside Poland.
Her message was clear: Poles abroad should aspire to be not only custodians of Polish affairs but leaders within their own communities. A call was issued to engage younger generations in these responsibilities.
Gerwazy Longher, president of the Union of Poles in Romania, expressed gratitude for the Senate’s sustained support, noting that the funds have powered a series of initiatives. These include the opening of a Polish school in Pojana Micului in 2010 and the Polish House in Nowy Sołoniec. He emphasized the importance of education projects for the Polish community concentrated in the Suceava region of Bukovina, Romania.
Longher observed that many Poles pursue studies in Poland and, although not all return, numerous professionals contribute to both nations regardless of their residence.
Longher, who also serves as a member of the Romanian parliament, praised former Senate President Bogdan Borusewicz for his ongoing support as chair of the Emigration and Contacts with Poles Abroad committee.
Borusewicz responded by acknowledging the joint efforts and noting that the investment was entirely in line with the expectations of those supporting Polish projects overseas.
The Senate delegation highlighted the favorable political climate between Poland and Romania, stressing that it enhances benefits for both the Polish community and the Polish minority in Romania.
During a two-day official visit, Marshal Kidawa-Błońska met with the presidents of both Romanian chambers, Nicolae Ciuca and Alfred-Robert Simonis, and held discussions with Romania’s prime minister, Marcel Ciolacu. The agenda for the next day included a meeting with Romania’s foreign minister, Luminita Odobescu.
The delegation, which included notable figures in budget, defense, and European affairs committees, arrived at Romania’s invitation and reinforced strong ties between the two countries.
Shared Warnings and Joint Security Efforts
Kidawa-Błońska commented that Poland and Romania were among the first to recognize Russia’s capabilities and to respond decisively when tensions escalated in early 2022. The two nations share a perception of threats to stability in eastern and southern Europe, and their cooperation reflects a proactive stance on security and defense.
She stressed that both countries have borne substantial costs due to Russia’s aggression and that the experiences gained should inform future steps, including robust cooperation in weapons procurement and defense arrangements for Ukraine. The message emphasized that the voices of nations on the eastern flank must be heard and acted upon collectively.
The marshal reiterated that regional partners, including the Baltic states, must act in concert to strengthen resilience and deterrence. The shared goal remains clear: coordinated action, not mere dialogue, is essential for security and stability.
Kidawa-Błońska reaffirmed that the Bucharest visit would include further parliamentary dialogue. The Senate delegation’s discussions with Romanian leaders covered European security in the context of Ukraine, economic cooperation, and Romania’s aspirations regarding Schengen accession. The importance of expanding cultural and educational collaborations was also highlighted as a staple of a thriving bilateral relationship.
Reflecting on their conversations, the marshal noted a strong willingness to deepen cooperation beyond security concerns. The discussions aimed to boost economic ties and cultural exchange, anticipating upcoming cultural seasons shared by Poland and Romania and potential parliamentary committee meetings to expand ongoing work.
Overall, the visit illustrated a robust partnership with a focus on mutual safety, cultural collaboration, and practical support for Poles abroad and the Polish minority in Romania. The two governments demonstrated a clear, actionable commitment to strengthening ties and advancing shared interests, with ongoing parliamentary and diplomatic engagement expected to continue beyond these talks.
tkwl/PAP/X
Source: wPolityce