Poland Assumes CBSS Presidency with a Focus on Regional Security

On 1 July 2025, Poland assumed the rotating Presidency of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) for a one-year term, placing particular emphasis on protecting critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea and preventing hybrid threats, including those posed by the shadow fleet operating in the region. The Presidency will also address broader security challenges, notably the war in Ukraine and threats posed by Russia.

“Today, on July 1st, Poland assumes the Presidency of the Council of the Baltic Sea States. This is a key political forum that plays an important role in strengthening the security of our region. In the face of the challenges posed by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, we intend to continue our regional cooperation,” said Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski today during the official handover of the CBSS Presidency.

During the Polish CBSS Presidency 2025-2026, which will last until 30 June 2026, Poland will particularly focus on strengthening regional resilience and security. Key priorities include enhancing the work of CBSS working groups, reinforcing the political dimension of the Council, and addressing critical issues such as infrastructure protection, hybrid threats, and the Shadow Fleet. Poland also aims to deepen cooperation with Ukraine as a CBSS observer, recognising its role in the evolving security landscape of the Baltic Sea Region.

Poland will also lead the ongoing process of realigning the priorities and functioning of the CBSS. At the most recent CBSS Ministerial Session, held on 15–16 May 2025 at Vihula Manor in Estonia, the CBSS Ministers agreed in the Vihula Declaration to “reform and refocus the CBSS in order to effectively meet the challenge of the new security environment.”

“We will prioritise the protection of critical infrastructure and the prevention of hybrid threats, including those posed by the Shadow Fleet. Our presidency represents a shared commitment to a safe and sustainable Baltic Sea Region,” added Minister Sikorski, who will assume leadership of the CBSS Presidency in July and serve as the Council’s main representative.

Poland’s CBSS Presidency follows on from the preceding Estonian Presidency, which notably focused on strengthening regional cooperation and advancing the shared commitment to a safer and more sustainable Baltic Sea Region.