Historic Success for Polish Economy: GDP per Capita Exceeds Spain

The Polish economy has reached a historic milestone, overtaking Spain in terms of income per capita measured by purchasing power parity. Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented on this success as proof of the effectiveness of the transformation, while also noting ambitions for further growth towards the standard of living of the wealthiest countries in the European Union. However, this success coincides with serious macroeconomic challenges, as pointed out by experts and the European Commission. Warning voices are emerging about a Greek scenario, resulting from the projected increase in public debt, which could exceed 100% of GDP within a decade if austerity reforms are not implemented. Since joining the European Union in 2004, Poland has been systematically closing the gap with Western European countries, starting from a level below 50% of the EU average GDP per capita. In the diplomatic sphere, Poland is positioning itself as a leader in the process of expanding the community. The Prime Minister met with representatives of Armenia, which expresses strong aspirations to join the European structure. Donald Tusk emphasized that Poland remains an advocate of a pragmatic approach to admitting new members, which also applies to Ukraine. At the same time, Finance Minister Andrzej Domański is lobbying at the EU forum for a drastic reduction in energy prices, which he identified as a key condition for the survival and regaining of competitiveness by the European heavy industry. The head of the finance ministry also reassured the public, cutting off speculation about a planned increase in the retirement age or the introduction of a new health tax to replace the current contribution. „To restore the competitiveness of European industry, we must lower energy prices.” — Andrzej Domański Transatlantic relations have also received a significant boost in the form of an American resolution commemorating 250 years of Polish-American friendship. The President of the National Bank of Poland, Adam Glapiński, met with the US ambassador, which is interpreted as an element of care for institutional stability amid political tensions. Poland is also fighting for prestige on the international stage, applying to host the headquarters of the new EU agency EUCA in Warsaw. Although the dynamics of income growth inspire optimism, the fiscal situation will require the government to balance investments with budget discipline.

Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media emphasize the historic success of catching up with Spain as a result of government reforms and stability, while ignoring warnings about debt. Conservative media focus on the threat of public debt rising above 100% of GDP and the lack of concrete remedial actions from the government.