The sea in the campaign. Challenges and priorities for the future president. Magdalena Biejat for Daily Mare

Is Poland fully utilizing its access to the sea? What role should the maritime economy, security in the Baltic Sea, the development of the Navy and Border Guard, as well as the future of fishing and maritime rescue play in the state's strategy? In a series of interviews with candidates for the office of the President of Poland, we ask about their vision for a maritime Poland – both in economic and strategic terms. Our second guest is Deputy Marshal of the Senate, Magdalena Biejat. What are her ideas for the development of Polish ports, border protection, and support for sailors? Find out in the first interview by Daily Mare.

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14 march 2025   |   15:33   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

Wicemarszałek Senatu Magdalena Biejat fot. materiały prasowe

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

Magdalena Biejat: First and foremost, we must continue the program to build three modern frigates. The first of these is currently under construction at the Polish Naval Shipyard. As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I will ensure this program is completed on schedule.

We also need to resolve the process of selecting submarines for the Polish Navy. Poland has never built submarines domestically in its history, but we can ensure that certain components are manufactured locally. Additionally, we must develop the capability to service both submarines and frigates in Poland.

Another key area is naval aviation, which plays a critical role in reconnaissance, anti-ship operations, and search-and-rescue missions.

Do you believe the Border Guard requires increased funding to more effectively secure Poland’s maritime borders?

Yes. This is a non-controversial issue that should form part of a cross-party consensus. It’s essential that the Border Guard leverages capabilities already in use by the Polish Armed Forces, such as the Wizjer unmanned aerial systems.

What changes to the Maritime Search and Rescue Service (SAR) system do you consider essential to improving the efficiency of maritime rescue operations?

In this and other highly specialized matters, I will rely on the expertise of professionals in the field.

As President of Poland, do you foresee involvement in advancing domestic production of warships and equipment for maritime services? If so, how?

Absolutely. I believe we should bolster the capacity of the Polish Naval Shipyard, as well as various civilian and military repair yards and the Maritime Technology Center.

What steps will you take to strengthen international cooperation in protecting Poland’s territorial waters?

I advocate for close collaboration with Baltic states, which is fundamental to Poland’s security and extends far beyond merely safeguarding territorial waters.

What actions do you plan to undertake to develop and modernize Poland’s seaports?

For the port of Świnoujście, completing the construction of the Deepwater Container Terminal is critical. In Gdańsk, building infrastructure to handle grain trade is of paramount importance. Finalizing the dredging of the waterway to the port of Elbląg also remains a priority. Additionally, investments to provide logistical support for the nuclear power plant in Choczewo are strategically significant. The Ministry of Infrastructure is currently working on constructing offshore facilities to enable the unloading of heavy and oversized cargo required for the plant’s construction and operation.

What role do maritime transport and inland waterway shipping play in your economic strategy?

Maritime transport is currently the most energy-efficient method for moving large volumes of cargo over long distances. It would be unwise for a coastal state like Poland to overlook its economic importance.

However, I oppose the development of inland waterway shipping. Poland faces simultaneous challenges from recurring hydrological droughts and—as seen in 2024—floods. River regulation could exacerbate both issues. Available analyses also suggest that investments in inland shipping are economically inefficient. Instead, we should prioritize the development of rail freight transport.

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

Of course!

What initiatives will you pursue to enhance the competitiveness of Poland’s shipbuilding industry?

I will support the government’s efforts in this area. As Commander-in-Chief, I will strive to ensure that the submarine procurement program benefits Polish shipyards, including through service contracts.

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

Cybersecurity is a top priority for the Polish government and is being addressed in cooperation with our allies. Ports should receive the same high level of protection as other critical infrastructure assets.

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

Offshore wind energy development should be a cornerstone of transforming Poland’s energy mix. Our energy resilience must be built on wind power—both onshore and offshore—alongside nuclear energy.

Do you see potential in developing technologies to harness energy from waves and tidal currents?

The potential for energy generation from marine sources like waves and currents depends heavily on geographic conditions. In the Baltic Sea, this potential is limited. Furthermore, existing technologies can negatively impact the environment, tourism, and fisheries. While I support continued research in this field, our investment priorities should focus on onshore and offshore wind, nuclear power, and photovoltaics, alongside grid modernization.

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

That’s a task for the government. The President doesn’t directly implement support mechanisms but plays a key role in shaping the debate and influencing decision-making bodies. Investments in renewable energy are vital for our energy resilience and economy, and I will certainly advocate for them.

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

It’s worth reopening discussions on Baltic fisheries, especially given the declining fish stocks and the sector’s ongoing regional economic importance.

Do you intend to propose legislative initiatives, and if so, what reforms regarding fishing quotas and marine resource protection do you plan to introduce?

At present, I have no specific legislative initiatives planned in this area, but I’m open to dialogue with the industry and don’t rule out proposals emerging from those discussions.

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