The need for economic growth, the demographic changes, and the preparation for entering into the eurozone are the top three priorities for Poland in the next four years according to President Bronislaw Komorowski. The head of State gave a speech at the new Parliament lower house Sejm’s inaugural meeting.
 The first challenge is to “improve state’s functioning,” Komorowski said, underlining that in times difficult for Europe “only courageous and wise actions will allow Poland to continue stable economic growth.”
 Poland must pay attention to growing life expectancy, and low total fertility rate. “The forecasts give a reason to worry and require a deep analysis,” he highlighted. The necessary steps should include “public debate about gradual increase of retirement age” to assure decent pension benefits, “support for responsible parenting” and completing the healthcare system reform.
 The third challenge is the crisis in Europe. Poland should “reach the readiness to adhere to the eurozone,” Komorowski said. “It is about awareness that this is the way leading to further development.” Clearly the condition is to contain the current crisis,” the President observed. “Without membership Poland will be deprived of a chance to play a role in the world, adequate to our aspirations.”