Brussels Bubble Tea S3E1: ‘Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku’! Poland, Warsaw and much more!
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January 06, 2025
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Poland will take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 January 2025, where its responsibilities will include heading meetings and member priorities. From defence, energy, industry and affordability, what will dominate the agenda in the coming months? In this episode of Brussels Bubble Tea (Season 3, Episode 1), host Ani Gundes speaks with colleague Mateusz Stankiewicz-Szynka on these topics and more, including what makes the country and its capital city of Warsaw such a fascinating place to discover.
How long have you lived in Poland and Belgium, and what team do you work in at FTI Consulting?
Mateusz: I am a Polish national, although I grew up in Germany and Finland before moving to Belgium. Last summer, my family and I relocated back to Warsaw, and I now travel frequently between Warsaw and Brussels. I have been at FTI for eleven years and work in the Energy and Industrials team, focusing on oil and gas, hydrogen and transport-related issues from an EU advocacy perspective.
For those who may not be familiar with it, what is the rotating EU Presidency? What does it do, and how long does it last?
Mateusz: The Presidency rotates among the 27 EU member states every six months. Its role is to organise and lead the work of the Council of the European Union, which acts as co-legislator with the European Parliament on proposals from the European Commission.
Each Presidency sets priorities and provides strategic direction. Three countries form a trio to coordinate agendas and manage the transition between terms. The current trio is Poland, Denmark and Cyprus. Poland is opening the cycle, and its term begins at the same time as the new European Commission, which makes this a particularly important and demanding period.
What will be the main topics Poland aims to tackle during its Presidency?
Mateusz: Europe is navigating major geopolitical shifts. These affect political systems, economic conditions and trade relations, and they also shape how we will live in the future and the direction the continent will take.
Security will be the central priority. This includes defence cooperation, diversification of energy sources, protecting Europe’s manufacturing base and ensuring access to affordable prices. Over the next six months, these aspects of security will drive political debate and guide policy initiatives.
Let us look at Poland itself. If someone knew nothing about your country, how would you describe it?
Mateusz: A useful starting point is geography. The geometrical centre of Europe is located near Warsaw. Politically, Brussels may be viewed as the heart of the EU, but geographically it is closer to Warsaw.
Poland has had a dramatic history. It was once a major European power, later lost its independence, and eventually re-emerged as a regional player. Today Poland is dynamic, future-oriented and entrepreneurial. It retains elements of its traditional identity yet is firmly integrated into the Western mainstream, with its own Polish character.
One thing I appreciate about living there again is that Poland still experiences four distinct seasons. You can really see how nature, food and even people change throughout the year. It makes living in or visiting the country richer and more interesting.
What is Poland known for in terms of culture, such as food, music and art?
Mateusz: Polish ceramics and pottery are highly distinctive, and amber jewellery from the Baltic Sea is very characteristic. As for well-known figures, Chopin, Copernicus and Marie Curie are recognised globally.
Traditional Polish cuisine is hearty and includes meats, breads, mushrooms, potatoes and many varieties of pickles. It suits the winter season particularly well.
What are your favourite cultural aspects of Poland, and which city is your favourite?
Mateusz: I am biased, but Warsaw is my favourite. People from Krakow may disagree. Krakow is more beautiful, but Warsaw is more exciting.
The city blends Eastern and Western influences. It is often described as a phoenix rising from the ashes, because more than 80 percent of Warsaw was destroyed during the Second World War. You can see history reflected in the architecture. There are pre-war buildings, post-war socialist structures and modern skyscrapers and business districts. The skyline has changed rapidly, especially since Poland joined the EU in 2004.
If someone was visiting Warsaw for the first time, what would you recommend they do?
Mateusz: I recommend visiting in late spring or summer. Warsaw is clean and very green. The Vistula River runs through the city, and both banks offer attractions such as beaches and bike paths through wooded areas.
Key places to visit include the Museum of War Art, the Copernicus Centre for Science and interactive exhibits, and the Warsaw Uprising Museum, which is especially moving.
In the evenings, the Vistula boulevards offer many options for food and drinks. For a calmer atmosphere, you can sit on the river beaches or visit rooftop bars for views of the city.
How is the Christmas season in Poland. Is there a strong festive atmosphere?
Mateusz: Yes. Christmas traditions are strong, and spending time with family and friends is important. Christmas markets take place across the country. If you want snow and a classic winter setting, you should visit the southern regions near the mountains. Christmas is an important moment in the year.
For visitors who want to try a few Polish words, what basics would you teach them?
Mateusz: Basic greetings are very helpful. “Dzień dobry” means good day and “Dziękuję” means thank you. It also helps to know simple phrases to ask where something is. Even if pronunciation is challenging, people appreciate the effort, especially when you say it with a smile.
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Published
January 06, 2025
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