Germany and Poland Champion Joint Effort for Europe's Economic Revival

Joint Call for European Economic Acceleration

In a significant joint press conference held in Warsaw on February 2, 2026, German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil and Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domański issued a powerful call for Germany and Poland to take joint responsibility in driving Europe's economic recovery. The ministers emphasized the urgent need to sharpen the continent's competitiveness and overcome sluggish growth, stating that Europe 'can no longer afford idleness' and must accelerate to secure its economic strength.

This meeting marked Lars Klingbeil's first official visit to Poland since assuming office, highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing broader European economic challenges.

Addressing Europe's Economic Headwinds

The joint declaration comes amidst a period of modest economic performance across Europe, with growth rates lagging behind global rivals such as the United States and China. Forecasts indicate a challenging environment, with the overall EU economy projected to grow by approximately 1.4% in both 2025 and 2026. The euro area is expected to see a modest recovery, with growth forecasted at 1.3% in 2025 and 1.8% in 2026. Germany, traditionally a key economic driver, is anticipated to experience growth of around 0.3% in 2025, accelerating to 1.1% or 1.2% in 2026, following several years of stagnation.

European economies are grappling with various uncertainties, including:

• Trade tensions
• Increased defense spending
• Rising government bond yields
• Delays in the utilization of Next Generation EU funds

Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domański articulated this urgency, stating, 'The European economy needs to accelerate. Changes are happening too slowly.'

Strategic Priorities for a Resilient Europe

The ministers' discussions extended beyond a general call for revival, touching upon specific strategic areas crucial for Europe's future economic leadership. They advocated for policies that would transform Europe into an 'economic, rather than regulatory, power,' and stressed the importance of strengthening the continent to be 'faster, more resilient, and more flexible.'

This bilateral initiative aligns with broader efforts among leading European nations. Just days prior, on January 28, 2026, finance and economy ministers from six major European economies, including Germany, France, Poland, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands, held a video conference to address stalled projects and enhance competitiveness and defense capabilities. Key objectives discussed in these forums include:

• Advancing a mooted capital markets union
• Strengthening the international role of the euro, including an independent European payment system
• Coordinating defense investments
• Securing access to critical minerals through coordinated purchasing and reserves

Both ministers also highlighted the need to prioritize European sovereignty amidst evolving transatlantic relations and to curb the influence of US tech monopolies.

A United Front for Future Prosperity

The joint commitment from Germany and Poland signals a determined effort to forge a united front against economic stagnation and external pressures. By emphasizing shared responsibility and concrete policy objectives, the two nations aim to provide a strong impetus for a more dynamic, competitive, and sovereign European economy in the years to come.