Poland emerges as an active player in the region of Central Europe, soon to become an integral part of the European Union. At the same time, Poland is deeply convinced that preserving transatlantic solidarity remains an important European imperative. We do not want a divided Europe. In fact all our actions are aimed at avoiding further divisions. We would like to make a contribution to the transatlantic solidarity. Especially at a moment when the current tensions over Iraq policy will be overtaken by events. Iraq’s disarmament is the key element of improving international security. Solution of the Iraqi problem should lead to a more stable, safe and predictable international situation.

Poland does not see any contradiction between America reducing chaos in the international realm and a strong and healthy European Union. Clearly there is a need to refine the transatlantic bargain. Both sides have a lot to offer, even if their threat assessments differ. If the transatlantic community breaks up, new competing coalitions will eventually emerge. Their aim will be mutually balancing, which we know too well from the past. It should be obvious, for all in the Northern Hemisphere that such a scenario would equate to the transatlantic community’s inability to draw a lesson from 20^th century European history. It would not be easy for future generations to forgive…