German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has extended his congratulations to Karol Nawrocki on his election as the new President of Poland. In a statement on Monday, Steinmeier emphasized the significance of the German-Polish friendship, describing the two nations as not only neighbors but also friends. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to have deepened their bilateral relations over the years.
Steinmeier stressed that the German-Polish friendship is a matter close to his heart and he called on Nawrocki to strengthen the bond between the two nations. The German President also acknowledged the country’s enduring responsibility for the great suffering inflicted on the Polish people, stating that the fact that Poland and Germany now stand side by side as close partners in the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a source of great gratitude.
He emphasized the importance of working together on the foundation of democracy and the rule of law to secure a future for Europe in safety, freedom and prosperity.
In contrast, the German liberal politician Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, from the Free Democratic Party, reacted negatively to the election outcome, viewing it as a severe setback for Europe. She told the Rheinische Post that the victory of the nationalist candidate is a cause for concern, as it may lead to a strengthening of nationalist forces in Europe.
Strack-Zimmermann also expressed her disappointment at the outcome, as it marks a significant reversal from the election of the pro-European candidate Donald Tusk as the Polish Prime Minister. She warned that the newly elected President, Karol Nawrocki, will likely use his veto power to block all initiatives of the government, aiming to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Tusk.
The German President’s statement and the FDP politician’s reaction highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of the German-Polish relationship, with both sides acknowledging the significance of their friendship and cooperation while also expressing concerns about the potential implications of the election outcome on the future of Europe.