European Commission to allocate funds for Poland

The European Commission is preparing to unblock up to 137 billion euros ($148 billion) in cohesion and recovery funds for Poland, which until now has been unable to access the cash over rule-of-law concerns.

The announcement was made by President Ursula von der Leyen during a trip to Poland on February 23, where she spoke next to Prime Minister Donald Tusk, according to Euronews.

The breakthrough comes days after Polish officials travelled to Brussels to present an "action plan" of nine draft bills aimed at restoring judicial independence from the country's highest tribunal to the lower courts. 

"We are impressed by your efforts and those of the Polish people to restore the rule of law as the backbone of your society. A society where everyone plays by the rules. A society where people and businesses can trust the institutions and can hold authorities to account," von der Leyen said after meeting the premier.

"Based on the reforms you have launched and the number of immediate steps you have taken on judicial independence, I have good news: next week the College [of Commissioners] will come forward with two decisions on European funds that are currently blocked for Poland. These decisions will free up to 137 billion euros for Poland," von der Leyen said.