Sea on the campaign trail. Adrian Zandberg for Daily Mare

Does Poland fully exploit its access to the sea? What place should maritime economy, security in the Baltic, navy development, border guard enhancement, and the future of fishing and maritime rescue occupy in the state's strategy? <br>In a series of interviews with candidates for the office of the President of Poland, we ask about their vision for maritime Poland - both economically and strategically. Our third interviewee is Adrian Zandberg. What are his ideas for the development of Polish ports, border protection, and support for sailors? Find out in the next Daily Mare conversation.

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02 april 2025 | 07:07 | Source: Gazeta Morska | Prepared by: Kamil Kusier | Print

Poseł na Sejm RP Adrian Zandberg / fot. materiały prasowe

What specific steps do you plan to take to modernize and develop the Polish Navy if you are elected President of Poland?

Adrian Zandberg: Maritime routes are extremely important for the functioning of the state, and the experiences of recent years have shown how much we have to do in the area of security as a country. The National Security Bureau (BBN) in my administration will work on incorporating the protection of these areas into the security strategy. At the same time, please note that the President of Poland has limited competencies in this area - these are mainly government tasks.

Do you support increasing funding for the Border Guard to better secure the maritime border of the state?

We must counteract incidents and provocations on the maritime border. The scale of funding should be tailored to the real needs and the maritime border protection strategy. At the same time, the Border Guard must operate in accordance with international law and national regulations.

What changes in the MSPiR (Maritime Search and Rescue Service - SAR) system do you consider crucial for improving the efficiency of maritime rescue?

It is not the president's role to assess the validity of specific programs. Although I certainly care about improving this area, I would expect the government to ensure that the "Rescuer" program does not face further delays.

As President of Poland, do you foresee involvement in the development of domestic production of warships and equipment for maritime services? If so, in what way?

The question for experts is whether it makes sense to broadly support domestic production and maintenance of maritime services given the proximity of Kaliningrad and the need to strengthen anti-aircraft security. However, I believe that domestic industry - including the maritime sector - should be supported wherever possible. The scope of production must be linked to the real needs of securing the Baltic Sea, which also requires coordination with Nordic and Baltic states.

What steps will you take to strengthen international cooperation in protecting Polish territorial waters?

First of all, it is about building European logistics chains. We need to engage in dialogue with Baltic and Nordic countries, identify vital gaps, and fill them. For instance, Sweden has clearly declared a lack of electronic security units. As President, I will take the initiative to ensure that the defense of the Baltic Sea is complementary and based on harmonious partnership cooperation.

What actions do you plan to take to develop and modernize Polish seaports?

Again, it is a matter of including this element in the national security strategy. Ports are essential and support units combating sabotage or the notorious "shadow fleet." We must have the infrastructure to counter such threats.

What place does maritime transport and the development of inland navigation occupy in your economic strategy?

Due to climate change, inland navigation is becoming less attractive, as droughts and floods are more frequent. River renaturalization is also necessary to protect millions of people from flooding. Maritime transport, both passenger across the Baltic and cargo, must be part of Poland's transport policy.

Do you support the construction of new transshipment and logistics terminals in Polish ports?

Yes, provided that the critical infrastructure remains under Polish control.

What initiatives will you take to increase the competitiveness of the Polish shipbuilding industry?

The President's role is diplomatic support and convincing the public of the effort's validity. Specific initiatives should come from the government.

How do you plan to improve the security of critical port infrastructure against cyberattacks and terrorist threats?

It is difficult to point to other presidential tools than cooperation with the government and the military in the field of the National Security Bureau and shaping international relations to combat threats more effectively.

What is your position on the development of offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea?

Renewable energy sources (RES) are an essential part of the energy mix, and the development of offshore wind farms will reduce our dependence on coal and lower energy bills for millions of Poles. Of course, renewable sources should be complemented by clean energy from controllable sources, which is why I advocate building nuclear power plants in Poland. The location of offshore wind farms must take into account shipping needs and the operation of coastal radars.

Do you see potential in the development of technologies related to energy extraction from waves and marine currents?

The Baltic Sea is not known for strong tidal forces. While it is worth investing in research and development, I do not expect energy from this source to cover a significant part of our demand.

What support mechanisms for investors in marine renewable energy do you plan to introduce?

Offshore wind farms, by their nature, must have a less dispersed ownership structure, so talks will be conducted with a few large companies. Negotiations will be led by the government. However, it is essential that Poland's critical infrastructure remains under state control.

What actions do you plan to take to protect the interests of Polish fishermen on the international stage?

I will monitor the issue and address it during meetings with leaders of Baltic countries. Within the EU, compensation for reduced fishing quotas seems unevenly balanced. Some limits are necessary to prevent overfishing and protect the long-term interests of this part of the economy.

Do you intend to introduce, in the form of a legislative initiative, any reforms regarding fishing quotas and marine resource protection? If so, what kind?

I do not intend to do so.