These are the best-interested loans, the best guarantees. (...) It is not on the marketplace present – and it is shown by global economical agencies – more favourable conditions – provided Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, presenting the benefits of the EU SAFE programme in the Senate. The head of the MON asked the senators to adopt the introducing law SAFE.
Senators are present working on the Financial Enhancement Instrument for SAFE. It is intended to enable Poland to usage low-interest defence loans granted by the European Union, mainly for the acquisition of weapons. Our country as the largest beneficiary of SAFE is expected to receive EUR 43.7 billion. – This is simply a program that gives a chance to accelerate modernization, for more purchases, for a stronger Polish army. This program, which nobody imposes on us, is voluntary – said Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz at a joint conference with Marshals of the legislature Margaret Kidawa-Błońska.
The head of the MON argued that the SAFE programme offers the best interest-bearing loans and best guarantees. Which, as he pointed out, is confirmed by economists and global economical agencies. He recalled that the repayment was to begin only 10 years after receiving the funds and to be spread over 45 years. The interest rate on the debt is variable at 3.17%.
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz asked Senators to support the bill allowing Poland to benefit from the EU loan. Last time A week passed by the Sejm. – This is simply a vote either for a strong, safe, well-armed army and strong Poland, or against it – he assessed.
The Deputy Prime Minister explained that participation in SAFE is not an obligation. – If there are more favourable loans or backing under another instruments, we can usage them. We are not addicted – the head of the MON explained. He pointed out that Poland will besides finance contracts already concluded from May 2025, as it will control to a more favourable financing strategy than a debt drawn up, for example, in the Armed Forces Support Fund.
On Tuesday, Senators from the Committee on National Defence and Budget and Public Finance gave a affirmative opinion on the amendment to the law implementing the EU SAFE mechanism. According to it, the loan, both capital and interest, will not be repaid from part of the national defence budget. “This is the clear signal that this is the additional money for the defence strategy in our country, for building security,” said Marshal Kidawa-Błońska.
The amendment was tabled by a group of Senators of the ruling coalition. Deputy Minister of Defence Cezary Tomczyk, who was present on the committee, stressed that the ministry wanted to safe its own interests and the anticipation of full having its resources which, in accordance with the Homeland Defence Act, are to be at least 3% of GDP each year.
