On May 9, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk gathered in Nancy to sign a historic treaty aimed at reinforcing the cooperation between France and Poland. This Treaty of Nancy is seen as a significant milestone in the context of rising tensions in Europe, particularly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the perceived threats from Russia.
The signing ceremony took place at the iconic Place Stanislas, a site rich in Franco-Polish history, where the two leaders engaged with the public, adding a touch of warmth to the formal proceedings. Macron and Tusk's dialogue even included a light-hearted exchange about the pronunciation of "Stanislas," showcasing a friendly rapport between the two leaders.
The Treaty of Nancy is characterized as a treaty of friendship and reinforced cooperation, and it encompasses ambitious objectives across various strategic domains, including defense, energy, economy, nuclear issues, transportation, and cultural cooperation. Macron emphasized that this treaty is designed to strengthen the already dense ties between the two nations, which date back to Poland's regaining of independence 34 years ago.
During the press conference following the signing, Macron articulated the need for a united and competitive Europe, stating, "We have a central responsibility: peace and security on our continent, which the Russian aggression against Ukraine has attempted to undermine for more than three years, dare I say, for more than ten years." He underscored the importance of a mutual defense partnership, which includes a clause of mutual assistance, reinforcing commitments made under NATO and the European Union.
Macron described the treaty as a way to send a clear signal of solidarity, stating, "This is a truly integrated defense partnership we want to build. It does not replace NATO or the EU, but it strengthens and operationalizes the existing ties." He also highlighted the necessity for Europe to enhance its own defense capabilities, particularly in light of the shifting geopolitical landscape.
In addition to defense, the treaty outlines a cooperation plan for civil nuclear energy, which will facilitate intensified economic collaboration through a bilateral economic forum and an annual high-level dialogue on nuclear issues. Macron noted that these steps would lead to a greater industrial coordination, particularly in defense and transportation sectors.
Moreover, the treaty establishes a Franco-Polish Friendship Day, to be celebrated annually on April 20, symbolizing the enduring partnership between the two nations.
While the treaty signing was a moment of celebration, it also occurred against the backdrop of significant challenges. On the same day, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a military parade in Moscow to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany, further highlighting the contrast between the two nations' diplomatic endeavors.
Tusk referred to the signing of the treaty as an "historic event," asserting that it signifies a new chapter in Franco-Polish relations. He expressed confidence that France and Poland would be able to rely on each other in both good and challenging times, emphasizing the treaty's comprehensive nature, particularly in the realm of security.
The mutual defense clause included in the treaty opens the door for cooperation in nuclear deterrence, a matter of growing importance given the current geopolitical climate. Macron reiterated that France's vital interests, which underpin its nuclear strategy, now also encompass those of its key European partners.
"In this treaty, we have decided to send a very clear signal by integrating a mutual defense and assistance clause, building on our common commitments within NATO and the European Union," Macron stated. He further assured that in the event of an attack against Poland, France would be prepared to provide military assistance.
As part of the broader context of this treaty, Macron and Tusk discussed the importance of enhancing military cooperation, with plans for joint exercises between their armed forces in the coming months. This development reflects a strategic shift toward greater European autonomy in defense matters, moving away from reliance on American military support.
In a related economic context, the signing of the treaty coincided with troubling news from ArcelorMittal, which announced plans to cut over 600 jobs in France, with some positions being relocated to Poland. This development has raised concerns among labor unions in France, who have sought to engage with Macron on the matter, underscoring the complexities of Franco-Polish economic relations.
Despite the challenges, the significance of the Treaty of Nancy cannot be understated. It marks a commitment to not only strengthen defense ties but also to foster economic cooperation in critical sectors such as nuclear energy and infrastructure. The treaty is seen as a proactive step in response to the shifting geopolitical landscape and the need for Europe to assert its sovereignty and security.
As the two nations move forward, the Treaty of Nancy is poised to serve as a foundation for deeper collaboration in various fields, ultimately contributing to a more unified and resilient Europe.
