Poland’s acting Chargé d’Affaires in the Czech Republic, Barbara Krystyna Tuge-Erecińska, discusses how both countries rapidly reduced dependence on Russian resources and bolstered energy independence after Russia’s invasion. She outlines why both nations are pursuing decarbonisation through a mix of renewable energy, nuclear power, and interim gas usage, while identifying opportunities for collaboration in gas, nuclear energy, and transport infrastructure. She also highlights Polish regions that have become increasingly popular among Czech tourists recently.
Poland and Czechia are currently undergoing a fundamental transformation of their energy systems. How do you assess the steps taken by our countries to strengthen energy security?
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has transformed Europe’s energy security landscape. Poland and Czechia have consistently advocated for energy independence through diversified supply sources, multiple delivery routes, and a robust cross-border infrastructure. Poland achieved complete independence from Russian gas in 2022 via the Baltic Pipe and expanded Świnoujście LNG facilities, followed by eliminating Russian oil imports in 2023. Czechia has also systematically reduced its dependence on Russian raw materials, despite the more complex conditions posed by its landlocked location. Thanks to infrastructure development, including the TAL+ project, and the coordinated approach of the Czech government and Orlen Unipetrol, all oil processed in Czech refineries has come from non-Russian sources for over a year now. Comparable progress has been made in natural gas. Both nations have handled this challenge remarkably well. The next challenge involves phasing out coal while decarbonising energy systems. Both countries pursue a realistic strategy: expanding renewable energy alongside reliable zero-emission nuclear power, and temporary gas usage during the transition.
What energy cooperation areas between our two countries do you think have the best potential?
Among various cooperation possibilities, natural gas stands out as especially promising given its growing role in replacing coal. Today, Czechia receives gas through terminals in Germany and the Netherlands, while Poland gets most supplies from Norway via Baltic Pipe and LNG shipments from America and Qatar through Świnoujście. In about two years, Poland will have an LNG floating terminal (FSRU) in Gdańsk Bay that could expand if neighbours like Czechia want access. Although no direct pipeline connects Poland and the Czech Republic, Slovakia bridges both countries. This means Polish FSRU gas could reach Czechia through Slovakia’s existing infrastructure without expensive new construction. This potential is undoubtedly worth closer joint consideration.
While Poland and Czechia have selected different nuclear technology providers – Poland opted for Westinghouse and Czechia for KHNP – significant collaborative opportunities exist at both corporate and regulatory levels. The small modular reactor (SMR) sector presents a comparable dynamic. Though national projects employ different technologies (GE Hitachi for Poland, Rolls-Royce SMR for Czechia), cross-border initiatives such as the BWRX-300 reactor project by OSGE, active in both nations, can establish a strong platform for closer cooperation. Additionally, both countries participate in an informal “nuclear alliance” dedicated to advancing nuclear energy development in the European Union.
What other areas of cooperation do you consider essential for the development of economic ties?
Transport infrastructure constitutes a critical component in this context. While historical deficiencies have existed, progressive improvements are underway. The integration of Czechia’s D11 motorway with Poland’s S3 expressway is a current pivotal initiative, establishing a new transport artery connecting the Baltic region to Central Europe within the next several years. This infrastructure holds strategic significance not merely for passenger mobility and traffic flow optimisation, but primarily for commercial freight logistics. Poland’s sustained investment in port modernisation and road network expansion enhances market access for Czech trade partners, yielding mutual economic benefits. Additionally, the defence industry sector offers expanding collaborative opportunities, as both nations possess robust, frequently complementary capacities.
Tourism between our countries is growing at a record pace. Which regions of Poland would you recommend to Czech tourists?
We are pleased to observe Poland’s increasing appeal to Czech travellers. Recent years have witnessed substantial growth in Czech visitor numbers, with preliminary 2025 projections indicating approximately one million arrivals. This upward trajectory has been facilitated by enhanced rail connectivity, including the Baltic Express service. While the Baltic coastline remains highly favoured, I would encourage Czech tourists to explore Poland’s other remarkable regions. Lower Silesia, for example, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the Czech border and is famous for its mysterious castles, is worth mentioning. The Warmia-Masuria region provides distinctive experiences through its extensive lake systems and opportunities for outdoor activities in pristine natural settings. For lovers of wild nature, rich culture and high-quality cycling infrastructure, I can also recommend the Białowieża Forest and the Podlasie region.
