EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conferenc
| Dokumendiregister | Rahandusministeerium |
| Viit | 11-3.1/2671-1 |
| Registreeritud | 05.06.2025 |
| Sünkroonitud | 06.06.2025 |
| Liik | Sissetulev kiri |
| Funktsioon | 11 RAHVUSVAHELINE SUHTLEMINE JA KOOSTÖÖ |
| Sari | 11-3.1 EL institutsioonide otsustusprotsessidega seotud dokumendid (eelnõud, töögruppide materjalid, õigustiku ülevõtmise tähtajad) (Arhiiviväärtuslik) |
| Toimik | 11-3.1/2025 |
| Juurdepääsupiirang | Avalik |
| Adressaat | Polish presidency of the Council of the EU |
| Saabumis/saatmisviis | Polish presidency of the Council of the EU |
| Vastutaja | Martin Põder (Rahandusministeerium, Kantsleri vastutusvaldkond, Euroopa Liidu ja rahvusvahelise koostöö osakond) |
| Originaal | Ava uues aknas |
| Taotle dokumendi eemaldamist või parandamist |
Failid
Tähelepanu! Tegemist on välisvõrgust saabunud kirjaga. |
Dear Sirs,
With refference to the invitation for the EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference in Bialowieza, which is to take place on the 25/26 June 2025, please find attached the issue paper to be disussed at the meeting.
For those of you who hasn’t contacted us so far, please pay attention to the Practical Information Note with the agenda of the meeting attached.
With best regards,
On behalf of the Cohesion PRES PL Team,
From: Ochej-Łokuciejewska Magdalena <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 12:37 PM
To: Ochej-Łokuciejewska Magdalena <[email protected]>
Cc: Kusina-Pycińska Monika <[email protected]>; Porczyk Wojciech <[email protected]>; Raszkowska Zuzanna <[email protected]>; [email protected]; [email protected]; Groszkowska Monika
<[email protected]>; 'Załęska Magdalena' <[email protected]>
Subject: EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference in Bialowieza, PL
Dear Minister,
On behalf of the European Commission and the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union, please find attached the invitation to the EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference, which will take place in Bialowieza, Poland, on the 25-26th of June 2025.
With kind regards,
Magdalena Ochej-Łokuciejewska
Magdalena Ochej-Łokuciejewska
Radca
Wydział Spraw Europejskich
Departament Spraw Europejskich i Współpracy Międzynarodowej
+48 22 2738863
[email protected]
www.gov.pl/web/fundusze-regiony
ul. Wspólna 2/4
00-926 Warszawa
– June 26, 2025, Białowieża –
Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine has had serious impacts on the EU’s eastern border regions that are at the front line in safeguarding the EU's stability and prosperity from external threats. These regions were already lagging in economic development, and many already faced serious structural issues which have been compounded by the total closure of their external borders when it comes to Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. On the other hand, regions in Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Poland having a common border with Ukraine have intensified exchanges and developed new economic activities.
The aim of the meeting is to discuss the actions to increase the cohesion and resilience of the EU’s eastern border regions in the context of the new financial perspective after 2027, taking into account the many challenges that the regions face individually and collectively.
Background
The main impact and challenges for the EU's regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine affected by the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine and the geopolitical instability in the region are the following:1
Regions bordering Russia and Belarus are struggling with long-term restrictions on cross-border contacts, the closure of local border traffic, the growing risk of hybrid attacks, including the instrumentalization of migration, the growing number of cyberattacks and disinformation, GPS interference, and damage to the communication links. They also experience threats to the physical security and cybersecurity of critical infrastructure.
As a result, EU regions bordering aggressor countries are experiencing poorer economic performance, for instance slower GDP growth, lower trade volumes, decline in foreign direct investments, reduced flows of goods and a slowdown in tourism. Due to this economic impact and the loss of markets previously located in aggressor countries, many companies have closed, and unemployment has increased, particularly in the industrial sector.
The increase in uncertainty and the deteriorating sense of security have accelerated negative demographic trends, including the depopulation of regions bordering Russia and Belarus. These regions face a sharp decline in the working-age population, triggering internal disparities, economic stagnation or recession, struggling health systems, and reduced access to services. Population leaving from the border regions in search of better and safer conditions, increase the skills shortage and lower the tax base of local governments in these regions.
At the same time, the border regions with Ukraine experience the negative consequences of intensification of cross-border contacts - more people need housing, health and social services. Local and regional governments are facing increasing pressure on public services and infrastructure.
The risk of poverty and social exclusion is critically high, households suffered from significant inflation. In 2023, price levels increased by 30% in Estonia, 29% in Lithuania, 28% in Latvia, and 25% in Poland compared to 2021, far exceeding the EU average increase of 16%.
These circumstances deepen existing development inequalities and undermine every citizen’s right to stay.
In the security sphere, regions bordering aggressor countries are a natural space for actions to increase Europe's preparedness for worst-case scenarios, improving military mobility and strengthening external borders. While this strengthens the strategic importance of these regions, the unstable security situation decreases the attractiveness of these areas for business, residents, tourists and investors. Decline in security, quality of life, slowdown in economic growth and depopulation threaten the EU's cohesion and prospects for social and economic development, especially in regions and countries with lower economic potential bordering aggressor countries.
Cohesion Policy has the ambition to continue to play a key role in addressing socio-economic challenges and ensuring that all EU regions remain strong and resilient. Member States and regions are making efforts during the mid-term review of the 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy programmes to reallocate funding to address challenges specific to the eastern border regions, including for security and defence.
The European Commission has also recognized the need to support eastern border regions by proposing amendments to the regulations on Cohesion Policy for 2021-2027. The aim of these changes is to increase the effectiveness of Cohesion Policy by encouraging the Member States and regions to invest in European strategic priorities, including those related to defence capabilities and security, while maintaining the focus of Cohesion Policy on reducing economic, social, and territorial disparities. The Member States can reprogramme part of their cohesion funds for new investments in the context of the ongoing mid-term review of Cohesion Policy. For EU’s eastern borders regions, additional flexibility has been proposed.
The Cohesion policy programmes implemented in the new financial perspective after 2027 should become a key source of financing investments in the areas of security, resilience and competitiveness of the EU’s regions bordering Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine.
Against this background participants are invited to share their views on the following questions:
1. Which are the main challenges that Eastern border regions face because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus?
2. How can Cohesion Policy respond to current and future challenges facing the regions bordering Russia, Belarus on one hand and Ukraine on the other? Which changes are possible in the short term and which in the longer term?
In particular:
a) How should the EU Cohesion Policy address the diverse situation of regions at the EU's Eastern borders and provide regions with adequate support tailored to their specific circumstances? How to combine top down with bottom-up approach, involving local authorities and communities?
b) What measures and instruments could strengthen the economies of regions bordering aggressor countries individually and collectively, in particular to maintain employment and the competitiveness of enterprises?
c) What measures and instruments could strengthen social cohesion and preparedness in the regions bordering the aggressor countries, and especially address rising skills shortages, poverty and pressure on social services?
d) What are the possible new development paths for these territories, making use of their local competitive advantages to increase their resilience in the long term? What role for mainstream cohesion policy and what role for Interreg?
e) Which areas of support specific to Cohesion Policy should create synergies with other EU policy instruments? How to ensure coherence with other national and regional policies?
PRACTICAL INFORMATION NOTE EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference
25-26 June 2025
BIAŁOWIEŻA
The Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union, in cooperation
with the European Commission, would like to invite you to Białowieża for the
EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference of the Ministry of
Development Funds and Regional Policy to be held on the 25-26th June 2025.
We are extremely pleased to provide you with this Practical Information Note
(PIN) containing the logistics and technical information on the meeting.
Table of contents
Białowieża – venue of the conference ............................................................................................. 3
Working language of the meeting and interpretation .................................................................. 6
Delegation format ............................................................................................................................... 6
Accreditation ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Time limits ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Badge ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
Study visit .............................................................................................................................................. 7
Transport ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Catering ................................................................................................................................................. 8
Security .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Accommodation ................................................................................................................................... 8
Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Presidency on the Internet ................................................................................................................. 9
Social media .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Practical information ........................................................................................................................ 10
Contact details ................................................................................................................................... 10
Białowieża – venue of the conference
Białowieża is a quiet village in the Podlasie region, located near Poland’s Eastern border
with Belarus. The village is best known for its direct access to the Białowieża Forest – the
last remaining part of the primeval lowland forest that once covered much of Europe. This
ancient forest is one of the most valuable ecosystems on the continent, home to a rich
variety of flora and fauna, including the rare European bison (Bison bonasus), which may
be observed in their natural habitat or at the European Bison Show Reserve.
The broader Podlasie region is distinguished by its natural beauty and cultural diversity
and serves as a historical meeting point of various ethnic and religious communities,
including Polish, Belarusian, Ukrainian, Lithuanian, and Tatar populations. This heritage is
visible in the region’s architectural landmarks – from Orthodox and Catholic churches to
wooden mosques and old synagogues – as well as in its customs and cuisine.
Together, Białowieża and the Podlasie region offer a unique and immersive experience,
combining unspoiled nature with deep historical and cultural layers. It is an ideal
destination for those seeking reflection, educational exploration, or simply a peaceful
environment surrounded by one of Europe’s last truly wild forests.
The Żubrówka Hotel
Hotel Żubrówka **** Białowieża
Pałacowa 6, 17 - 230 Białowieża
The Żubrówka Hotel is a four-star hotel situated in the center of Białowieża, a location of
exceptional natural and cultural significance. The hotel is located in close proximity to the
entrance of Białowieża National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Provisional agenda of the meeting Please note that the agenda may be subject to further changes.
25 June 2025 (Wednesday)
by 15:00 Arrival of the delegations in Warsaw
15:00 – 19:00 Transfer from Chopin Airport in Warsaw to Białowieża
19:00 Guest check-in at the hotel in Białowieża – Hotel Żubrówka
20:00 – 22:00 Welcome dinner for delegates
26 June 2025 (Thursday)
8:00 - 9:00 Site visit at the border with Belarus (as a part of the presentation of the Shield East project)
9:10 – 9:30 Press conference
9:30 – 10:00 Welcome and opening by the representative of the PL PRES and European Commission
- Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, Minister of Development Funds and Regional Policy
- Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, European Commission
- Roxana Mînzatu, Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness, European Commission, tbc
- Piotr Serafin, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, European Commission, tbc
10:00 – 11:00 Working session part I
11:00 – 11:30 Coffee break and family photo
11:30 – 12:30 Working session part II
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch buffet
From 13:30 Transfer from Białowieża to Chopin Airport in Warsaw
Working language of the meeting and interpretation
English will be the working language of the meeting. Interpretation services will not be
provided.
Delegation format
Format of the border Member States (FI, EE, LV, LT, SK, RO, HU) delegation: 1+5.
DK delegation: 1+0.
European Commission delegation: 1+2.
Committee of the Regions delegation: 1+1.
European Parliament delegation: 1+0.
Accreditation
Each meeting participant is required to go through the accreditation process for the event,
in accordance with the instructions provided in the accreditation system. Only successfully
completed accreditation authorises to attend the meeting. Participants register through a
dedicated DAO (Delegation Accreditation Officer).
Please, prepare a recent photo (taken within the last 3 months preceding the date of the
meeting) before the commencement of the registration. Moreover, we kindly ask you to
make sure that all the personal data entered has been written down correctly, as some of
the data will be displayed on the badge.
All personal data provided during the accreditation process is processed in accordance
with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). A link to the regulations can be
found on the accreditation platform.
Time limits
Date Measure Contact track
2nd of June 2025 Opening of the
accreditation
Contact e-mail:
11th of June
2025
Closure of the
accreditation
Badge
After successful completion of the accreditation process, you will receive an e-mail
confirmation including the electronic ID (attached pdf file containing a QR code). Please,
save the file on your mobile phone or tablet.
At the entrance to the meeting, it will be necessary to present an electronic badge and a
document with a photo. You will then receive printed badges which, for security reasons,
should be carried in a visible place throughout the meeting.
Study visit
tbc
Transport
The Polish presidency will arrange transport for each delegation from the Warsaw Chopin
Airport to Białowieża.
Transfers to and from Białowieża will be scheduled in accordance with the respective flight
itineraries of the delegations.
Catering
During registration process it is possible to indicate dietary preference. In addition to
standard meals, the following dietary options are available: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free
and lactose-free diet.
Meals will be served as indicated in the agenda.
Cold and hot beverages and small snacks will be available at Hotel Żubrówka during the
meetings.
Security
For security reasons, it is absolutely necessary to wear badges in a visible place throughout
the meeting. In addition, the QR code on the badge is required to be made available for
scanning upon request by the organisers, accreditation officers or facility security.
Accommodation
The Polish Presidency has booked hotel rooms and will cover the costs of the
accommodation for the given delegation formats for one night (25-26 June) at the
Żubrówka Hotel.
Please note that we will not cover the costs of the accommodation of the delegates that
exceed the given delegation format.
Breakfast is included. No provision will be made for any additional expenses (lunches,
laundry service etc.), any additional nights that extend beyond the official meeting or any
extra hotel rooms.
Facilities
Wi-fi will be available in the venue of the meeting, the password will be provided during the
meetings.
Presidency on the Internet
Website
https://www.poland25.eu
The website of the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union contains
information in English on the following topics:
• institutional, political and cultural events during the Polish presidency,
• latest news, press releases,
• priorities of the Polish presidency,
• the Trio programme,
• the cultural programme,
• calendar of events,
• important contacts and links.
Social media
All content related to the Polish presidency will also be available on the following social
media:
• Instagram: #Poland25EU
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poland25eu
• X (Twitter): https://x.com/poland25eu
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/poland25eu/
Practical information
Emergency number: 112 (fire brigade, medical aid, police)
Electricity: The voltage in Poland is 230 V, 50 Hz.
Local time: Central European summer time zone (CEST) - GMT +1:00
Area code for Poland: +48
Currency: The official currency of Poland is the Polish zloty. Official daily exchange rates
can be found on the website of the National Bank of Poland: https://nbp.pl/statystyka-i-
sprawozdawczosc/kursy/.
Weather in Poland: https://meteo.imgw.pl/
Tap water: Polish tap water is regularly tested in terms of quality and it is safe to drink,
https://www.warszawskakranowka.pl/
Smoking: Smoking is only permitted in designated official designated areas.
Contact details
Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy
Jacek Rostkowski
(+48) 22 273 8741
Ministry of Development Funds and
Regional Policy
Magdalena Ochej-Łokuciejewska
(+48) 22 273 8863
magdalena.ochej-
– June 26, 2025, Białowieża –
Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine has had serious impacts on the EU’s eastern border regions that are at the front line in safeguarding the EU's stability and prosperity from external threats. These regions were already lagging in economic development, and many already faced serious structural issues which have been compounded by the total closure of their external borders when it comes to Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. On the other hand, regions in Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Poland having a common border with Ukraine have intensified exchanges and developed new economic activities.
The aim of the meeting is to discuss the actions to increase the cohesion and resilience of the EU’s eastern border regions in the context of the new financial perspective after 2027, taking into account the many challenges that the regions face individually and collectively.
Background
The main impact and challenges for the EU's regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine affected by the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine and the geopolitical instability in the region are the following:1
Regions bordering Russia and Belarus are struggling with long-term restrictions on cross-border contacts, the closure of local border traffic, the growing risk of hybrid attacks, including the instrumentalization of migration, the growing number of cyberattacks and disinformation, GPS interference, and damage to the communication links. They also experience threats to the physical security and cybersecurity of critical infrastructure.
As a result, EU regions bordering aggressor countries are experiencing poorer economic performance, for instance slower GDP growth, lower trade volumes, decline in foreign direct investments, reduced flows of goods and a slowdown in tourism. Due to this economic impact and the loss of markets previously located in aggressor countries, many companies have closed, and unemployment has increased, particularly in the industrial sector.
The increase in uncertainty and the deteriorating sense of security have accelerated negative demographic trends, including the depopulation of regions bordering Russia and Belarus. These regions face a sharp decline in the working-age population, triggering internal disparities, economic stagnation or recession, struggling health systems, and reduced access to services. Population leaving from the border regions in search of better and safer conditions, increase the skills shortage and lower the tax base of local governments in these regions.
At the same time, the border regions with Ukraine experience the negative consequences of intensification of cross-border contacts - more people need housing, health and social services. Local and regional governments are facing increasing pressure on public services and infrastructure.
The risk of poverty and social exclusion is critically high, households suffered from significant inflation. In 2023, price levels increased by 30% in Estonia, 29% in Lithuania, 28% in Latvia, and 25% in Poland compared to 2021, far exceeding the EU average increase of 16%.
These circumstances deepen existing development inequalities and undermine every citizen’s right to stay.
In the security sphere, regions bordering aggressor countries are a natural space for actions to increase Europe's preparedness for worst-case scenarios, improving military mobility and strengthening external borders. While this strengthens the strategic importance of these regions, the unstable security situation decreases the attractiveness of these areas for business, residents, tourists and investors. Decline in security, quality of life, slowdown in economic growth and depopulation threaten the EU's cohesion and prospects for social and economic development, especially in regions and countries with lower economic potential bordering aggressor countries.
Cohesion Policy has the ambition to continue to play a key role in addressing socio-economic challenges and ensuring that all EU regions remain strong and resilient. Member States and regions are making efforts during the mid-term review of the 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy programmes to reallocate funding to address challenges specific to the eastern border regions, including for security and defence.
The European Commission has also recognized the need to support eastern border regions by proposing amendments to the regulations on Cohesion Policy for 2021-2027. The aim of these changes is to increase the effectiveness of Cohesion Policy by encouraging the Member States and regions to invest in European strategic priorities, including those related to defence capabilities and security, while maintaining the focus of Cohesion Policy on reducing economic, social, and territorial disparities. The Member States can reprogramme part of their cohesion funds for new investments in the context of the ongoing mid-term review of Cohesion Policy. For EU’s eastern borders regions, additional flexibility has been proposed.
The Cohesion policy programmes implemented in the new financial perspective after 2027 should become a key source of financing investments in the areas of security, resilience and competitiveness of the EU’s regions bordering Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine.
Against this background participants are invited to share their views on the following questions:
1. Which are the main challenges that Eastern border regions face because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus?
2. How can Cohesion Policy respond to current and future challenges facing the regions bordering Russia, Belarus on one hand and Ukraine on the other? Which changes are possible in the short term and which in the longer term?
In particular:
a) How should the EU Cohesion Policy address the diverse situation of regions at the EU's Eastern borders and provide regions with adequate support tailored to their specific circumstances? How to combine top down with bottom-up approach, involving local authorities and communities?
b) What measures and instruments could strengthen the economies of regions bordering aggressor countries individually and collectively, in particular to maintain employment and the competitiveness of enterprises?
c) What measures and instruments could strengthen social cohesion and preparedness in the regions bordering the aggressor countries, and especially address rising skills shortages, poverty and pressure on social services?
d) What are the possible new development paths for these territories, making use of their local competitive advantages to increase their resilience in the long term? What role for mainstream cohesion policy and what role for Interreg?
e) Which areas of support specific to Cohesion Policy should create synergies with other EU policy instruments? How to ensure coherence with other national and regional policies?
PRACTICAL INFORMATION NOTE EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference
25-26 June 2025
BIAŁOWIEŻA
The Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union, in cooperation
with the European Commission, would like to invite you to Białowieża for the
EU Eastern Border Regions High Level Conference of the Ministry of
Development Funds and Regional Policy to be held on the 25-26th June 2025.
We are extremely pleased to provide you with this Practical Information Note
(PIN) containing the logistics and technical information on the meeting.
Table of contents
Białowieża – venue of the conference ............................................................................................. 3
Working language of the meeting and interpretation .................................................................. 6
Delegation format ............................................................................................................................... 6
Accreditation ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Time limits ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Badge ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
Study visit .............................................................................................................................................. 7
Transport ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Catering ................................................................................................................................................. 8
Security .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Accommodation ................................................................................................................................... 8
Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Presidency on the Internet ................................................................................................................. 9
Social media .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Practical information ........................................................................................................................ 10
Contact details ................................................................................................................................... 10
Białowieża – venue of the conference
Białowieża is a quiet village in the Podlasie region, located near Poland’s Eastern border
with Belarus. The village is best known for its direct access to the Białowieża Forest – the
last remaining part of the primeval lowland forest that once covered much of Europe. This
ancient forest is one of the most valuable ecosystems on the continent, home to a rich
variety of flora and fauna, including the rare European bison (Bison bonasus), which may
be observed in their natural habitat or at the European Bison Show Reserve.
The broader Podlasie region is distinguished by its natural beauty and cultural diversity
and serves as a historical meeting point of various ethnic and religious communities,
including Polish, Belarusian, Ukrainian, Lithuanian, and Tatar populations. This heritage is
visible in the region’s architectural landmarks – from Orthodox and Catholic churches to
wooden mosques and old synagogues – as well as in its customs and cuisine.
Together, Białowieża and the Podlasie region offer a unique and immersive experience,
combining unspoiled nature with deep historical and cultural layers. It is an ideal
destination for those seeking reflection, educational exploration, or simply a peaceful
environment surrounded by one of Europe’s last truly wild forests.
The Żubrówka Hotel
Hotel Żubrówka **** Białowieża
Pałacowa 6, 17 - 230 Białowieża
The Żubrówka Hotel is a four-star hotel situated in the center of Białowieża, a location of
exceptional natural and cultural significance. The hotel is located in close proximity to the
entrance of Białowieża National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Provisional agenda of the meeting Please note that the agenda may be subject to further changes.
25 June 2025 (Wednesday)
by 15:00 Arrival of the delegations in Warsaw
15:00 – 19:00 Transfer from Chopin Airport in Warsaw to Białowieża
19:00 Guest check-in at the hotel in Białowieża – Hotel Żubrówka
20:00 – 22:00 Welcome dinner for delegates
26 June 2025 (Thursday)
8:00 - 9:00 Site visit at the border with Belarus (as a part of the presentation of the Shield East project)
9:10 – 9:30 Press conference
9:30 – 10:00 Welcome and opening by the representative of the PL PRES and European Commission
- Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, Minister of Development Funds and Regional Policy
- Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, European Commission
- Roxana Mînzatu, Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness, European Commission, tbc
- Piotr Serafin, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, European Commission, tbc
10:00 – 11:00 Working session part I
11:00 – 11:30 Coffee break and family photo
11:30 – 12:30 Working session part II
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch buffet
From 13:30 Transfer from Białowieża to Chopin Airport in Warsaw
Working language of the meeting and interpretation
English will be the working language of the meeting. Interpretation services will not be
provided.
Delegation format
Format of the border Member States (FI, EE, LV, LT, SK, RO, HU) delegation: 1+5.
DK delegation: 1+0.
European Commission delegation: 1+2.
Committee of the Regions delegation: 1+1.
European Parliament delegation: 1+0.
Accreditation
Each meeting participant is required to go through the accreditation process for the event,
in accordance with the instructions provided in the accreditation system. Only successfully
completed accreditation authorises to attend the meeting. Participants register through a
dedicated DAO (Delegation Accreditation Officer).
Please, prepare a recent photo (taken within the last 3 months preceding the date of the
meeting) before the commencement of the registration. Moreover, we kindly ask you to
make sure that all the personal data entered has been written down correctly, as some of
the data will be displayed on the badge.
All personal data provided during the accreditation process is processed in accordance
with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). A link to the regulations can be
found on the accreditation platform.
Time limits
Date Measure Contact track
2nd of June 2025 Opening of the
accreditation
Contact e-mail:
11th of June
2025
Closure of the
accreditation
Badge
After successful completion of the accreditation process, you will receive an e-mail
confirmation including the electronic ID (attached pdf file containing a QR code). Please,
save the file on your mobile phone or tablet.
At the entrance to the meeting, it will be necessary to present an electronic badge and a
document with a photo. You will then receive printed badges which, for security reasons,
should be carried in a visible place throughout the meeting.
Study visit
tbc
Transport
The Polish presidency will arrange transport for each delegation from the Warsaw Chopin
Airport to Białowieża.
Transfers to and from Białowieża will be scheduled in accordance with the respective flight
itineraries of the delegations.
Catering
During registration process it is possible to indicate dietary preference. In addition to
standard meals, the following dietary options are available: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free
and lactose-free diet.
Meals will be served as indicated in the agenda.
Cold and hot beverages and small snacks will be available at Hotel Żubrówka during the
meetings.
Security
For security reasons, it is absolutely necessary to wear badges in a visible place throughout
the meeting. In addition, the QR code on the badge is required to be made available for
scanning upon request by the organisers, accreditation officers or facility security.
Accommodation
The Polish Presidency has booked hotel rooms and will cover the costs of the
accommodation for the given delegation formats for one night (25-26 June) at the
Żubrówka Hotel.
Please note that we will not cover the costs of the accommodation of the delegates that
exceed the given delegation format.
Breakfast is included. No provision will be made for any additional expenses (lunches,
laundry service etc.), any additional nights that extend beyond the official meeting or any
extra hotel rooms.
Facilities
Wi-fi will be available in the venue of the meeting, the password will be provided during the
meetings.
Presidency on the Internet
Website
https://www.poland25.eu
The website of the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union contains
information in English on the following topics:
• institutional, political and cultural events during the Polish presidency,
• latest news, press releases,
• priorities of the Polish presidency,
• the Trio programme,
• the cultural programme,
• calendar of events,
• important contacts and links.
Social media
All content related to the Polish presidency will also be available on the following social
media:
• Instagram: #Poland25EU
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poland25eu
• X (Twitter): https://x.com/poland25eu
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/poland25eu/
Practical information
Emergency number: 112 (fire brigade, medical aid, police)
Electricity: The voltage in Poland is 230 V, 50 Hz.
Local time: Central European summer time zone (CEST) - GMT +1:00
Area code for Poland: +48
Currency: The official currency of Poland is the Polish zloty. Official daily exchange rates
can be found on the website of the National Bank of Poland: https://nbp.pl/statystyka-i-
sprawozdawczosc/kursy/.
Weather in Poland: https://meteo.imgw.pl/
Tap water: Polish tap water is regularly tested in terms of quality and it is safe to drink,
https://www.warszawskakranowka.pl/
Smoking: Smoking is only permitted in designated official designated areas.
Contact details
Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy
Jacek Rostkowski
(+48) 22 273 8741
Ministry of Development Funds and
Regional Policy
Magdalena Ochej-Łokuciejewska
(+48) 22 273 8863
magdalena.ochej-
