Chancellor Angela Merkel and Prime Minister Beata Szydło explained how cooperation at the level of civil society in the two countries has developed in leaps and bounds. The Polish-German Treaty of Good Neighbourhood and Friendly Cooperation, which was signed on 17 June 1991, has been a fundamental document for reciprocal relations ever since.

On this basis Germany and Poland intend to continue government consultations this year. Angela Merkel and Beata Szydło announced that there would be a special focus on the situation of people with Polish roots in Germany and on Polish language teaching.

United Kingdom should remain a partner within the EU

The Chancellor and the Polish Prime Minister both called on the United Kingdom not to leave the EU. But, the Chancellor pointed out, "fundamental principles including the principle of freedom of movement must be upheld". Prime Minister Beata Szydło added, "A strong Germany and a strong Poland mean a strong EU."

The British government has announced that a referendum is to be held on whether or not the UK should leave the EU. In the run-up to the referendum, the British government has submitted a list of the reforms it wants to see. These are to be discussed at the European Council meeting on 18 and 19 February. The negotiations will be chaired by the European Council President Donald Tusk. In a letter dated 2 February, he sent the proposed compromise to all EU member states. These proposals will be the basis for negotiations.

European asylum and migration agenda

The heads of government agreed that the resolutions on European asylum and migration policy should be realised swiftly. Only a few days before the European Council meeting, both stated that the refugee crisis can only be resolved if the EU member states work together.

The two countries also agreed on a humanitarian project for refugees in the crisis region, like fitting out a hospital.