Tusk is set to discuss this matter at a meeting with Polish farmers on Feb. 29, acknowledging that such a closure would be a temporary and "painful" solution for both sides
Read also: Polish farmers blockade railway near Ukraine border, dump grain in protest
"I am ready to make tough decisions when it comes to the border with Ukraine, always consulting with Kyiv, so that there is no unnecessary tension,” Tusk said.
“But we need to find a long-term solution."
The discussion between the two countries will also involve topics such as grain subsidies and other measures to make Polish grain more competitively priced compared to Ukrainian grain, he said.
Tusk earlier hinted at the possibility of expanding the ban on imports from Ukraine to Poland if the European Union does not provide a satisfactory solution for Polish farmers.
Polish Agriculture Minister Czesław Siekierski said that ongoing talks with Ukraine are nearing completion, focusing on introducing restrictions on the import of agricultural products.While a complete closure of the border with Ukraine is not feasible, strict restrictions can be implemented to ensure thorough control of all incoming products, addressing farmers' demands, he said.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on Feb. 23 that the Ukrainian government agrees with the European Commission's restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports, encompassing poultry meat, eggs, and sugar. Additionally, grain, corn, sunflower, and rapeseed from Ukraine will not enter the Polish market without permission.
The Polish farmers announced a complete blockade of the Ukrainian border. From Feb. 20, traffic was blocked at all checkpoints, as well as transportation links and entrances to transshipment railway stations and seaports will be blocked.
Read also: Protesting farmers at the Ukrainian border are right – Duda
We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!
Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Section: Nation
Author: Alla Shcherbak
