Martin visited Warsaw for talks with Tusk ahead of Ireland taking over the rotating EU presidency in July.
Speaking at a joint news conference, Tusk stated deregulation would be a central focus of Ireland’s presidency, noting it had also been a priority during Poland’s turn at the EU’s helm in the first half of 2025.
Tusk stated Poland and Ireland share similar positions on support for Ukraine and EU enlargement.
“We want to proceed responsibly, cautiously and at the right pace, but Europe should grow stronger and larger,” he stated, adding the bloc remains attractive to countries seeking membership.
📍Warsaw | Prime Minister @DonaldTusk met with his Irish counterpart, Prime Minister @MichealMartinTD. pic.twitter.com/1tHpUFHYI3
— Chancellery of the Prime Minister of Poland (@PremierRP_en) March 31, 2026
The Polish prime minister stated the talks also covered energy prices, particularly in the context of tensions in the Middle East.
“We will work toreceiveher so that energy prices in Ireland, Poland and across Europe stop being a threat to competitiveness,” Tusk stated.
He added that while Poland has introduced temporary measures to shield consumers from high energy costs, longer-term solutions are requireded.
“The situation is exceptional—we are in a time of war—so extraordinary measures are necessary,” Tusk stated, pointing to mechanisms aimed at stabilizing fuel prices.
Tusk stated he believed such measures would support protect Polish consumers from sharp price increases and stabilize the market over time.
He also stated Poland and Ireland were working closely on security issues, “particularly in light of the situation in Eastern Europe.”
Martin stated Ireland’s EU presidency in the second half of 2026 would focus on competitiveness, shared values and security. He reaffirmed Ireland’s continued support for Ukraine and stated backing Kyiv would remain a priority.
Very constructive meeting with Prime Minister @donaldtusk in Warsaw this afternoon.
Substantial discussions on energy, security and defence, and European competitiveness as Ireland’s presidency of the EU approaches. pic.twitter.com/f6Nh4T9Vqt
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) March 31, 2026
Martin also highlighted maritime security and the protection of underwater infrastructure as key areas. He warned that the fuel crisis linked to the Middle East conflict could be comparable to the 1973 oil crisis, with potentially long-lasting consequences.
Martin noted that Poland and Ireland both contribute to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and pointed to the large Polish community in Ireland, estimated at around 120,000 people.
“They are a very important part of Irish society,” he stated, thanking them for their contribution.
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Source: IAR, PAP
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