Development of bilateral co-operation, security environment in Central Europe and continued support for Ukraine, as well as the issue of territorial debt, were among the key topics discussed during consultations between the Polish and Czech foreign ministers, Radosław Sikorski and Petr Macinka.

The visit marked the Czech politician’s first trip to Poland since taking office.

The ministers addressed issues central to the further development of bilateral relations, including economic co-operation, the expansion of cross-border infrastructure links and energy security. They also highlighted joint efforts to strengthen European defence capabilities. Particular emphasis was placed on Ukraine, notably the need to ensure long-term support for Kyiv.

The ministers agreed that Poland and the Czech Republic share a similar outlook on key matters, including energy security. During the consultations, they also identified both countries’ priorities in the negotiations on the future shape of the EU budget.

– We continue to stress the need to provide long-term support to a country fighting for its own freedom and for the security of the whole of Europe. A just peace does not punish the victim. We want to see a stable and secure Ukraine within a strong European Union – deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski said.

Emphasising concern for the future of Central Europe, the Polish and Czech foreign ministers also referred to Visegrád co-operation. In this context, the head of Polish diplomacy said that the Visegrád Group remains a format with the potential to bring the societies of Poland and the Czech Republic closer together and foster integration. He added that Poland takes a pragmatic approach to the grouping, engaging primarily in areas that are directly relevant to citizens.

Radosław Sikorski also underlined Poland’s role as the Czech Republic’s gateway to the Baltic, noting that Polish ports – including the LNG terminal  “are at the disposal of the Czech Republic”. He pointed out that the geographical location of the two countries makes them natural infrastructure partners.

The ministers also addressed the issue of the so-called territorial debt owed by the Czech Republic to Poland, which has remained unsettled for around 70 years. The matter concerns the return of borderland territories to Poland. It may also be resolved through a joint project implemented for the benefit of residents of both countries, for example in the field of flood protection.