International

Poland embarks on new era with pro-EU Tusk as PM

In a pivotal political shift, Poland's parliament elected former European Council President Donald Tusk as Prime Minister on Monday, ending eight years of nationalist rule and signalling a potential thaw in relations with the European Union, as reported by Reuters.

Tusk, a seasoned politician known for his pro-EU stance, secured the support of 248 lawmakers in the 460-seat lower house, marking a significant win over the previous government led by Mateusz Morawiecki, which lost a vote of confidence earlier that same day.

Expressing his gratitude to supporters, Tusk acknowledged the historic nature of the change in leadership. "I will be indebted to all those who have trusted this new and wonderful Poland, to all those who have trusted us and decided to make this historic change," he declared in his acceptance speech.

Tusk's victory has been cautiously welcomed by European officials, who see his pro-EU stance as an opportunity to improve relations and potentially unlock billions of euros in frozen funding. The EU has previously expressed concerns about democratic backsliding under the previous government, leading to the suspension of funds earmarked for Polish development projects.

Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean echoed the optimism surrounding Tusk's appointment, highlighting his long standing friendship with Moldova and his vocal support for the country's reform agenda. "I look forward to strengthening bilateral relations and deepening Moldovan-Polish cooperation together as we advance on our European path," Recean stated.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

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