Poland's reparation demands are rejected by Steinmeier and Merz
In a recent development, Poland and Germany have strengthened their military cooperation, with Germany deploying four Eurofighter combat jets for airspace surveillance in Poland, up from the previous two, following repeated violations of Polish airspace by Russian drones.
The increased military support comes amidst a strained relationship between the two nations, primarily due to Poland's response to Germany's new migration policy. This policy includes the rejection of asylum seekers and the introduction of border controls, a move that has not been well-received by the Polish government.
During a meeting with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Poland's new President, Karol Nawrocki, once again raised the demand for reparations for World War II damages. However, Merz reaffirmed the German position, stating that the issue of reparations is settled from the German perspective.
Despite the differing positions, the conversation between Steinmeier and Nawrocki took place in a friendly and constructive atmosphere. The leaders emphasized the importance of close and trusting cooperation between their countries, with Nawrocki inviting Steinmeier to visit Poland, and Steinmeier accepting the invitation.
The issue of migration also played a significant role in the talks in Berlin this time. Nawrocki accused Germany of "pushing illegal migrants onto Poland." The parliamentary commission established by the PiS party in Poland had previously estimated the reparations amount at 1.3 trillion euros based on in-depth scientific research.
In an interview, Nawrocki expressed confidence that he would reach an agreement with the Federal Chancellor and the Federal President, and insisted on German payments of 1.3 trillion euros. However, no press conferences were held following the talks at Schloss Bellevue and the Chancellery, which is unusual for such an important partner of Germany as Poland.
Merz, in his own words, seeks to promote reconciliation with Poland after the horrors of World War II and German occupation, a historical responsibility for the federal government, according to the government spokesperson's statement on the meeting. Steinmeier welcomed Nawrocki with military honors at the Bellevue Palace.
The issue of remembrance and commemoration remains a shared concern between Germany and Poland. Merz assured Poland of Germany's support against the Russian threat during the meeting with Nawrocki. The conservative PiS party, to which Nawrocki is close, had established this parliamentary commission on the issue of reparations.
Merz aims for a "restart" in bilateral relations with Poland, having visited the country shortly after being elected Chancellor. The German federal president's spokesperson, Cerstin Gammelin, stated that the issue of reparations is settled from the German perspective. Nawrocki, however, considers the question of reparations not legally settled.
The Polish media only quoted Nawrocki regarding his visit to Berlin from his post on the X portal. Steinmeier and Nawrocki emphasized the importance of close and trusting cooperation between their countries, with Nawrocki inviting Steinmeier to visit Poland, and Steinmeier accepting the invitation. This renewed commitment to cooperation offers a glimmer of hope for improving relations between the two nations.
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