A visit by George Simion, leader of the Romanian AUR organization and candidate for president of Romania, at Karol Nawrocki's rally in Zabrze on 13 May, sparked broad interest and various reactions in the Polish public space. Simion, known for his conservative views and criticism of the centralization of the European Union, openly supported Nawrocki, the candidate of Law and Justice for president of Poland.
During his speech in Zabrze, Simion expressed his support for Nawrocki, saying:
"Karol Nawrocki must be the fresh president of Poland".
He besides pointed out that he had stopped his run before the second circular of the presidential elections in Romania to come to Poland and support Nawrocki. Simion stressed the importance of cooperation between Poland and Romania in building a Europe based on national and Christian values.
In his speech, Simion referred to the common past of the conflict for freedom, saying:
"Romanian people have advocated freedom, just as you have risen up against communism."
He besides expressed respect for the Polish heritage, mentioning “Solidarity”, John Paul II and another Polish saints.
Karol Nawrocki, welcoming Simion, said:
"Future president of Romania, Future president of Poland".
He stressed the common objectives of both politicians in their efforts to build a Europe of homelands, opposed to the centralisation of the European Union.
Simion's visit met with criticism from any politicians, including Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who commented on platform X: “Russia is happy. Nawrocki and his pro-Russian Romanian counterpart George Simion on 1 phase 5 days before the presidential elections in Poland and Romania. It is clear.” However, Simion and Nawrocks firmly rejected specified accusations, emphasizing their commitment to national sovereignty and Christian values.
In the context of the upcoming presidential elections in Poland and Romania, cooperation between Simion and Nawrock may be crucial for shaping the future policy of both countries. Their joint speech in Zabrze symbolizes the strengthening of relations between political forces in Central and east Europe seeking to defend national sovereignty and conventional values.
It is worth noting that Simion gained the top support in the first circular of the presidential election in Romania, which shows increasing support for his political agenda. His visit to Poland and his open support for Nawrocki may influence the mobilisation of electorate with akin views in both countries.
The joint activities of Simion and Nawrotsky are part of a broader trend of cooperation between leaders in Europe who search to strengthen national sovereignty and counter centralisation within the European Union. Their partnership can be an crucial component in shaping the future direction of European policy.
