On Friday, May 9, 2025, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a significant friendship and security agreement in Nancy, marking a pivotal moment in European defense collaboration. Tusk hailed the treaty as a "Gamechanger," emphasizing its importance in strengthening ties between Poland and France amidst growing security concerns regarding Russia and uncertainties surrounding U.S. commitments to Europe.
The signing took place on Europe Day, a date symbolizing the beginning of European integration, adding to the historical significance of the event. Macron and Tusk's partnership reflects a mutual understanding of the need for enhanced cooperation in defense, armaments, economy, infrastructure, and energy—areas that have become increasingly critical given the current geopolitical landscape.
The new agreement replaces a much narrower document from 1991, which primarily focused on France's support for Poland's EU accession. Today, the stakes are higher, and the focus has shifted towards military collaboration. This shift comes as Poland has ramped up its defense spending, projected to reach five percent of its gross domestic product in 2025, a reflection of its commitment to modernizing its military capabilities.
In the context of rising tensions with Russia, the treaty outlines plans for joint threat analyses, regular strategic consultations, and collaborative military exercises. This comprehensive approach aims to bolster the defense capabilities of both nations, fostering a closer relationship between their respective armaments industries. Notably, this agreement places Poland among a select group of nations that have secured similar partnerships with France, including Germany, Italy, and Spain.
Historically, Polish-French relations have faced hurdles, particularly during the tenure of Tusk's predecessor, Mateusz Morawiecki. In early 2020, Macron proposed a bilateral security pact, but it was met with skepticism and rejection from Morawiecki, who perceived the proposal as self-serving. However, the dynamics have shifted significantly under Tusk's leadership, with the French ambassador to Poland, Étienne de Poncins, noting that the bilateral relationship has "moved from darkness into light" since Tusk's return to power.
The agreement also reflects a broader change in Poland's defense strategy. For years, Poland prioritized building its military strength and reliance on the U.S. nuclear umbrella. However, doubts about U.S. reliability, particularly during the Trump administration, have prompted Warsaw to explore closer ties within Europe. As a result, the new treaty symbolizes a willingness to embrace greater European integration in defense matters.
The implications of this agreement extend beyond military cooperation. Economically, France sees potential in accessing the Polish defense market, which has been dominated by American and South Korean companies. The compatibility of French transport and tanker aircraft with Poland's chosen F-35 fighter jets presents a unique opportunity for collaboration in military procurement.
Moreover, Poland's ambitious defense plans necessitate partnerships with industrial allies, and France's defense industry emerges as a valuable partner, particularly in addressing gaps in munitions production. The Polish newspaper "Rzeczpospolita" has characterized the treaty as the best possible solution for Poland's security needs, at least until it develops its own nuclear capabilities.
In addition to defense, the agreement aims to enhance cooperation in energy policy. France is keen to position its nuclear technology as a key component of Poland's energy transition, even as Poland currently relies heavily on coal for electricity generation. While the U.S. company Westinghouse has secured the contract for Poland's first nuclear power plant, the French government is eager to assert its role in shaping Poland's energy future.
As the two leaders signed the treaty, they reaffirmed their commitment to a united Europe, capable of addressing new threats and challenges. Macron's invitation to Tusk to sign the agreement in Nancy—a city with historical ties to Poland—underscores the deepening friendship and shared vision for a secure and prosperous Europe.
In conclusion, the French-Polish friendship treaty represents a significant step towards enhanced security cooperation in Europe. With a focus on defense, economic collaboration, and energy policy, this agreement not only strengthens the bilateral relationship between France and Poland but also sets a precedent for future partnerships within the European Union.
