German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Monday that Germany and Poland are set to sign a defence collaboration agreement next year, aimed at deepening military cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking alongside Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk at a press conference, Merz revealed that both nations have tasked their defence ministers with drafting an agreement on defence policy, with the goal of finalising it during the bilateral anniversary year of 2026, which marks 35 years since the Polish-German partnership agreement was signed.

“We have tasked our ministers with drafting an agreement on defence policy. We want to conclude this agreement in the bilateral anniversary year 2026,” Merz said, emphasising the importance of the strengthened partnership for both countries’ security and European stability.

The discussions about the new agreement come at a time when both countries are looking to enhance military cooperation, particularly through joint exercises and closer coordination between their land forces.

Merz reiterated the importance of a strong Polish partner for Germany, saying, “We need a strong Poland as an equal partner. This is in our fundamental interest. And we want Poland to be a powerful partner for a secure, free, and prosperous Europe.”

While discussing the future of Polish-German relations, Merz also acknowledged the heavy burden of history, particularly in relation to the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany. He stressed that Germany could not and would not ignore the past, but sought to address it in a way that promotes healing rather than division.

“The German-Polish agenda should point to the future. But we cannot and do not want to ignore history. We must keep memories alive, even painful ones. I hope that we can do this in a way that does not divide us but brings us closer together,” Merz said.

As part of this ongoing dialogue, Merz announced plans to establish a permanent memorial to Polish citizens who were victims of Nazi tyranny and the Second World War. He also highlighted that Germany had already provided around €2 billion to survivors of Nazi rule.

“Germany has already provided around €2 billion to survivors of Nazi rule in the past,” Merz stated.

He added that discussions were ongoing regarding further humanitarian gestures towards Poland, though he refrained from specifying sums, asking for understanding in not revealing specific figures at this stage.

The German Chancellor emphasised that, despite the burden of history, the relationship between Germany and Poland had transformed, with Poland now a key economic and political player in Europe.

“Poland is one of the most productive countries we currently see in Europe. It is a country with enormous economic power and a young, productive population that speaks English very well,” Merz remarked.

He encouraged those with any prejudices about Poland to visit the country and see its transformation.

The bilateral relationship between Germany and Poland has evolved significantly since the signing of the Polish-German partnership agreement in 1991, and this new defence agreement is set to further strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

As the security landscape in Europe continues to evolve, the agreement could play a crucial role in enhancing both countries’ defence capabilities and securing Europe’s stability in the face of external threats.

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