On May 9, 2025, in a significant step towards enhanced military and political collaboration, Poland and France signed a treaty of friendship in Nancy. This new agreement, hailed as a "premium treaty" by French officials, replaces a previous pact from 1991 that was deemed outdated. Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the treaty's importance, particularly its provisions for mutual security guarantees amid rising global tensions.
The signing comes at a time when both countries are ramping up their defense spending significantly. According to a NATO report published in late April, Poland allocated 4.07% of its GDP to defense in 2024, amounting to approximately 157.9 billion zlotys. This figure is set to increase further, with projections of 4.7% of GDP in 2025 and an ambitious 6% by 2026. In contrast, France's defense spending stood at 2.03% of its GDP in 2024, translating to about 47.23 billion euros (over 200 billion zlotys), with plans to reach 50.5 billion euros in 2025 and 67.5 billion euros by 2030.
During the signing ceremony, Tusk highlighted the treaty's mutual assistance clause, which obligates Poland and France to come to each other's aid in the event of a threat. "We will be able to count on each other in these difficult times," Tusk stated, underscoring the treaty's focus on security, new technologies, and nuclear cooperation. Macron echoed this sentiment, expressing that the agreement opens a "new chapter in history" and reinforces the European commitment to industrial sovereignty.
Macron also announced plans for intensified economic cooperation, including an annual bilateral economic forum and high-level dialogues on civil nuclear energy, defense, and transportation. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and biotechnology, all critical for future industrial advancements.
The treaty is seen as a pivotal moment for European stability, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical challenges, particularly Russia's aggression in Ukraine, which has threatened peace in Europe for nearly a decade. Tusk and Macron both acknowledged their shared responsibility for maintaining security on the continent, with Tusk stating, "There is no united Europe without Polish-French friendship. The issue of security in this treaty takes on particular significance."
Macron reinforced this by stating, "We share a clear and strong conviction that a united, strong, sovereign, and competitive Europe is necessary. France and Poland can make a significant contribution to that end."
The new treaty also encompasses various sectors beyond defense, including infrastructure and energy, aiming to foster a comprehensive partnership that extends beyond military cooperation. It reflects a shift in how France approaches its alliances, as this is the first time it has signed such a treaty with a country it does not share a border with, marking a departure from its previous agreements with Germany, Italy, and Spain.
As both nations prepare to implement the treaty, analysts suggest that this collaboration could serve as a model for future partnerships within the EU, particularly in enhancing collective defense capabilities. The emphasis on mutual support and integrated defense mechanisms is expected to strengthen NATO's existing framework while fostering greater cooperation among European nations.
In conclusion, the Polish-French treaty represents a significant advancement in European defense collaboration, with both countries committing to mutual support in the face of external threats. As Tusk and Macron look towards a future of strengthened ties, the implications of this agreement could resonate throughout the EU, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and cooperation in ensuring regional stability.
