Poland’s foreign minister has accused Germany of interfering in Poland’s internal affairs. This dispute arose when German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for an explanation regarding claims that Polish consulates in Africa and Asia were selling temporary work visas to migrants at high prices.
This controversy has arisen just before Poland’s national election on October 15. Under pressure to address migration concerns in Germany, Chancellor Scholz urged Poland to provide clear answers on this matter and highlighted the importance of discussing asylum policy.
In response, Poland’s foreign minister accused Germany of meddling in Poland’s internal matters. He argued that Scholz’s comments went against the principle of sovereign equality between nations. He called on Scholz to respect Poland’s sovereignty and avoid making statements that could harm their relationship.
Poland’s foreign minister is also under political pressure due to allegations that the visa scheme operated within the Foreign Ministry. One of his deputies has been dismissed over alleged involvement, and investigations by prosecutors and anti-corruption authorities are ongoing. However, the foreign minister has rejected calls for his resignation, asserting that he is not under investigation.
Meanwhile, Germany is considering the implementation of short-term border checks with Poland and the Czech Republic to combat people smuggling into Germany. These checks would be carried out alongside existing random police checks. Discussions on this matter are ongoing between German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and her counterparts in Poland and the Czech Republic.
Germany and Poland visa dispute, Poland visa allegations, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Poland foreign minister Zbigniew Rau, Poland election