Poland’s NBP chief Glapiński and President Nawrocki propose ‘SAFE zero percent’ alternative to EU defense loans, sparking interest.
Poland Proposes SAFE Zero Percent
President Karol Nawrocki and National Bank of Poland (NBP) President Adam Glapiński announced on Wednesday a “Polish SAFE zero percent” as an alternative to the EU’s defense loan program. They did not disclose details, such as the source of funds, but specified an amount of 185 billion złoty.
Government Shows Interest
Government representatives, including Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, expressed interest in the proposal, emphasizing that additional funds would be needed to increase spending on the Polish military.
Czarzasty’s Health Funding Proposal
Sejm Marshal Włodzimierz Czarzasty of the Left party proposed on Thursday redirecting NBP funds to healthcare. He suggested allocating 200 billion złoty generated by the NBP to health security, stating, “SAFE is settled; we have an excellent line for financing Polish armament.” He thanked Glapiński for the NBP’s sudden profitability.
Czarzasty quipped, “Mr. President, coffee does not exclude tea,” proposing 180 billion złoty from SAFE for armament and 200 billion for healthcare. He noted the NBP’s past losses totaling over 80 billion złoty before its recent 200 billion złoty profit.
SAFE Law Awa Presidential Decision
On Friday, the Sejm finalized legislation to implement Poland’s participation in the EU’s SAFE defense program. The law now awaits President Karol Nawrocki’s signature; he did not reveal his stance on Wednesday.
Poland is the largest beneficiary of SAFE, eligible for approximately 43.7 billion euro (nearly 200 billion złoty). The government claims 89% of SAFE funds would go to Polish defense firms. The Polish Ministry of Defense included 139 projects in its application, covering key systems like Piorun anti-aircraft launchers, Borsuk infantry fighting vehicles, and Krab howitzers.
