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Poland takes over the OSCE Chair and will focus on making progress towards a peaceful resolution of conflicts in the OSCE area, in line with OSCE principles and commitments, the OSCE reported.

“It is an honour and a privilege to assume the Chairmanship of the OSCE for 2022. Our goal will be to continue efforts to rebuild confidence and trust, as well as to act as an honest broker and mediator between participating States,” said Zbigniew Rau, Poland’s Foreign Minister and the new OSCE Chairman-in-Office.

“Poland will focus on supporting the OSCE’s conflict resolution formats and processes, and special attention will be given to promoting comprehensive assistance to conflict-affected populations,” said Minister Rau. He emphasized that Poland’s efforts will be guided by a human-centred perspective.

“It will be crucial for us to safeguard the fundamental OSCE principles and commitments enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act and subsequent documents,” stressed the new Chairman-in-Office. “A genuine dialogue among participating States must be based on international law principles and a strong commitment to already existing OSCE mechanisms,” indicated Minister Rau.

The Chair highlighted that conflicting interests require joint efforts to advance solutions. Thorough discussion deserves thorough attention, and the Polish Chairmanship will ensure that all voices are heard and all advice taken into account.

The Chairmanship will also focus on economic co-operation, which is essential in the pursuit of peace and security. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerability and fragility of states’ economies and responding to this challenge through effective multilateralism will be one of Poland’s priorities. Minister Rau emphasized: “Our Organization is a joint effort and a collective exercise. Mobilizing the good will of the participating States is essential for the success of the exceptional endeavour that is the OSCE.”

Minister Rau will officially inaugurate the Chairmanship and outline Poland’s priorities at the session of the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna on 13 January 2022.