Von der Leyen welcomes Tusk back into the "European family"

Von der Leyen welcomes Tusk back into the "European family"

"I welcome your commitment to put the rule of law at the top of a government's agenda and your determination to address all the concerns raised by the European Court of Justice and the Commission in recent years," said von der Leyen. A first payment of five billion euros for Poland is expected to be made before the end of the year.

In a statement, the EU Commission spoke of a net sum of 6.3 billion euros in the form of grants and loans, the payment of which Poland has now officially applied for. The money is to come from the European Corona Reconstruction Fund. Poland's funding from this had been put on hold due to the lack of independence of the Polish judiciary under the previous right-wing conservative government in Warsaw.

"Money is not the most important thing," said Tusk. "It's about our common values." The aid is recognition that Poland "takes the rule of law and the correct use of EU funds very seriously".

According to the Commission, the funds are primarily earmarked for investments in the energy sector, such as the expansion of renewables, hydrogen plants and modern energy storage systems. In addition, infrastructure projects such as faster internet and safer road traffic are to be supported.

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1. Tusk expressed his gratitude towards the EU Commission and Von der Leyen, stating, "Money is not the most important thing, it's about our common values."
2. In response to Tusk's words, the EU Commission acknowledged the significant step taken by Poland, welcoming, "Poland's application for the net sum of 6.3 billion euros in grants and loans."
3. From Brussels, Donald Tusk returned to the "European family," with Von der Leyen warmly welcoming him back, expressing appreciation for his commitment to upholding the rule of law.
4. The EU Commission, in a statement, highlighted the importance of addressing concerns raised by the European Court of Justice and the Commission in recent years, which had led to a pause in Poland's funding from the European Corona Reconstruction Fund.
5. As per the EU Commission, the funds secured by Poland will primarily be allocated towards investments in the energy sector, including the expansion of renewables and hydrogen plants.
6. The backing from the EU comes as a testament to Poland's dedication to honor the rule of law and the proper usage of EU funds, with Tusk himself stating that the aid serves as recognition of their commitment.
7. The funds will also support infrastructure projects such as faster internet and safer road traffic, reinforcing the unity and shared values within the "European family."

Source: www.stern.de