Poland's New President Backs Schengen Zone in EU Vision

Poland's President-Elect Outlines Schengen Commitment in EU Vision

In his first foreign interview since election, Poland's incoming president Karol Nawrocki has articulated a vision for European cooperation that strongly endorses the Schengen zone while rejecting federalist ambitions. Speaking to Hungarian weekly Mandiner, Nawrocki positioned himself as a supporter of the EU's border-free travel area but cautioned against further centralization.

Central European Alliances Take Priority

Nawrocki emphasized Poland's need to strengthen regional partnerships, particularly through the Visegrád Group (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary) and the Bucharest Nine security initiative. These alliances, he argued, provide crucial frameworks for cooperation while preserving national sovereignty within the EU structure.

The president-elect specifically highlighted the economic and security benefits of Schengen zone participation, calling it an ideal model of European integration that respects member states' independence. His comments come as the EU faces renewed debates about deepening political union.

Balanced Approach to European Integration

Nawrocki outlined his vision for Poland's EU membership with three key principles:

• Preservation of national sovereignty within EU frameworks
• Continued participation in Schengen zone border policies
• Opposition to any moves toward an EU superstate

"I support a European Union that isn't a superstate," Nawrocki stated, "but rather a union of nations benefiting from shared economic opportunities, the free market, and the Schengen area."

Security Concerns Shape Foreign Policy

The interview also revealed Nawrocki's hardline stance on Russia, which he described as the "greatest threat to international security." His comments suggest Poland will maintain its strong support for Ukraine while remaining cautious about Kyiv's EU membership aspirations in the near term.