In a significant move to bolster defence cooperation, French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk signed a new agreement in Nancy, France, aimed at expanding the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The new agreement replaces a previous pact signed in 1991, which had become outdated. This updated document draws comparisons to similar agreements that France has made with neighbouring countries such as Germany, Italy, and Spain, Caliber.Az reports, referring to French media.

Nancy, a historic city with deep ties to both France and Poland, was chosen as the location for the signing. It was in Nancy that King Stanisław Leszczyński, exiled from Poland, settled in the 18th century. The date of the signing, May 9, also aligns with Europe Day, further emphasising the importance of European unity and cooperation.

During a press conference after the agreement was signed, Prime Minister Tusk stressed the importance of the mutual defence clause contained in the new accord, which includes military assistance. Both Poland and France are taking the clause very seriously, he noted.

"The intention of both the president and I is to treat this provision with utmost seriousness," Tusk said. "Therefore, practical and operational measures will follow this clause, addressing matters related to our defence industry, strategic planning, and preparation for action when needed."

Tusk also emphasised Poland's readiness to cooperate in all areas concerning defence, saying, "Poland is prepared to collaborate in all defence-related fields."

The Polish Prime Minister pointed out that the agreement is in the mutual interest of both countries, saying, "It is in our shared interest to leverage all the opportunities that France and Poland have to offer, especially in the event of a threat to both nations." He also clarified that the agreement was not an alternative to Poland’s cooperation with the United States or NATO.

"Quite the opposite," Tusk continued. "We have all heard these words, repeatedly spoken by our American allies. In Poland, we take these words seriously because we take all our allies seriously. For me, the closest and most intimate cooperation with France is the realization of this need."

President Macron added that the agreement sends a clear message, particularly through the inclusion of mutual defense and assistance provisions, which extend France’s participation in both NATO and the European Union.

"In this agreement, we’ve sent a very clear signal by including mutual defense and assistance. This is an extension of our role in NATO and the European Union," Macron stated. "This agreement represents a truly integrated defence partnership, not meant to replace NATO or the EU, but rather to strengthen and operationalise the connections we already have."

Looking ahead, Macron announced plans to organise joint military exercises between Poland and France in the "coming months," as both nations aim to further deepen their military cooperation and preparedness.

By Tamilla Hasanova

Source: caliber.az