The eastern partnership in Poland’s foreign policy.

Abstract

The eastern dimension of the EU policies was implemented under the European Neighborhood Policy. Eventually, the southern and eastern dimensions emerged as well. Poland joined the discussions that arose in the light of these changes and took a clear position on the need to establish and implement an effective eastern policy of the European Union regarding the countries located to the east of its borders. Poland initiated the Eastern Partnership with the support of Sweden and tried to form a group of its supporters in the EU. At first, such an interest of Poland in its eastern neighbors was motivated more by its geographical proximity and significant historical and economic ties, but today, security has become the dominant factor. As the ideologue of the new format of relations with the EU, Poland offered the countries under the Eastern Partnership a quite ambitious cooperation project. However, such plans of this country did not always find support in the EU. During its Presidency of the EU Council, Poland managed to do much for the implementation of the Eastern Partnership. Notably, the second Eastern Partnership Summit was held in Warsaw. The implementation of the Eastern Partnership produced different views on this project in the political establishment and common citizens of Poland varying from delight to criticism. Despite some difficulties, Poland continues to view the eastern direction of its foreign policy as its priority and the one that requires its intervention, support, and resources. Taking into account the current challenges and threats, Poland is particularly interested in the stable predictable and neighborly relations with the countries of the Eastern Partnership. Thus, Poland seems to be guided by the need to ensure its own safety. The cooperation with the countries under the Eastern Partnership is strategic and refers to the national interests of Poland.