Poland’s outgoing president vows continued public service after final address

Poland’s outgoing President Andrzej Duda gave his final address on August 5, promising to remain actively engaged both domestically and internationally.

Speaking to Polsat News, Duda reflected on the significant challenges faced during his tenure, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the outbreak of war in Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports.

“Today, there is no doubt that Poland is a considerably richer and safer country than it was ten years ago. Therefore, as I conclude my term as President of the Republic of Poland, I can look you in the eye with full confidence and say that these have been ten very good years for Poland,” he said.

The President expressed his gratitude to the Polish people for the trust they placed in him in the 2015 and 2020 elections.

He also extended his best wishes to his successor, Karol Nawrocki.

In closing, Duda stressed that while he is stepping down from the presidency, he is not saying goodbye.

“I remain in service, albeit in a different role. I will continue to be active both in Poland and beyond its borders, always caring for the affairs of the Republic,” he added.

Andrzej Duda has served as the President of Poland since August 2015, winning two consecutive terms in office after securing victories in the 2015 and 2020 presidential elections.

His presidency was marked by a focus on strengthening Poland’s security, economic development, and its position within the European Union and NATO.

Duda’s tenure was also notable for his support of conservative social policies and his close alignment with the ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS). However, his presidency attracted criticism from opposition groups and parts of the international community for perceived judicial reforms and issues relating to media freedom.

As Duda steps down, Karol Nawrocki, a historian and former head of the Institute of National Remembrance, is poised to take over the presidency, signalling potential shifts in Poland’s domestic and foreign policy outlook.

By Aghakazim Guliyev