Polish PM declares strategic shift as country builds strongest army “in centuries”

Poland’s Prime Minister has declared a pivotal shift in national strategy, unveiling that the country was ready to adopt a new doctrine aimed at positioning the country as a dominant regional power both economically and militarily.

In a special address to the nation marking the 21st anniversary of Poland's entry into the European Union, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that Poland was building an army the likes of which it has not had in centuries, Caliber.Az reports citing Polish media.

"We are creating an army like Poland hasn't had in centuries. Super strong and modern. An army for victories. Poland's voice in Europe has not sounded so strong for a long time. Poland is respected and listened to. Without Poland, nothing important can be agreed in Europe," Tusk said on May 1.

The Polish Prime Minister appealed to Poles that they have no reason to fear the times they live in today, when uncertainty, brutality and egoism are returning to world politics.

"War has ceased to be abstract, commitment to values ​​has been replaced by the belief that nothing is free. Does this mean that our Polish dreams will be taken away from us again? Should we be afraid? No. We need to be strong," Tusk said.

The Polish Prime Minister recalled that this year, when Poland marks 1000 years since King Boleslaw the Brave was crowned and Poland became a kingdom, is in fact a turning point because the country is ready for a new doctrine to be a regional power.

"We are investing billions in armaments and infrastructure. We will not hesitate to give priority to our companies in this. Economic nationalism is not a bad thing," Tusk highlighted.

Poland's defence industry has played a key role in the European response to the Ukraine conflict so far as they produce vast amounts of necessary arms and ammunition. Earlier this year, Polish President Andrzej Duda announced that his country plans to spend 4.7% of GDP, an approx. €30 billion, on defence this year, which would make it the largest defence budget among NATO countries. Owing to its robust economic growth over the past years, it has transformed into one of the strongest economies among EU countries and Warsaw is dedicated to investing in its defence.

Besides focusing on domestic defence production, it is also allocating funds into imports. Poland has signed an intergovernmental agreement with the United States on March 31 worth almost $2 billion that will see the US provide logistical support and training for the Patriot air defence systems.

By Nazrin Sadigova