Polish and British PMs discuss post-Brexit bilateral relations

The meeting in Warsaw on Thursday was part of a number of visits by newly appointed UK Prime Minister Theresa May in the region.

During a press conference with Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydło following the meeting, May said that the two politicians had discussed how they “can continue to deepen [the two countries'] co-operation, following on from the agreement late last year to work more closely together.”

“First, we have discussed how we make a success of Brexit and work together to maximise the opportunities for both our countries. The UK and the EU need to take time to work out our objectives for the negotiations on the UK’s departure and the future relationship.

“As Prime Minister, I will seek to address the concerns of the British people about free movement, while recognising the importance of a close economic relationship between the UK and the EU.”

Poles in the UK

During the visit, Prime Minister May also raised the issue of the current and future situation of Polish citizens residing in the UK. It is estimated that there are around a million Poles living in the country.

Prime Minister Szydło said that the situation of Polish citizens will not change for as long as the United Kingdom is still part of the European Union.

She added that after leaving the EU, the UK will act on a principle of reciprocity. “The situation of EU citizens [in the UK] will be exactly the same as British citizens in the European Union,” Szydło said. (rg)