It is with great satisfaction that I announce the merger of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Committee for European Integration which comes into effect as of January 1^st 2010 in pursuance to the Act on the Committee for European Affairs. The Act provides for the dissolution of the Office of the Committee for European Integration which is thus replaced by the new extended Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Accordingly, the Foreign Minister assumes the responsibility for Poland’s membership in the European Union. Nevertheless, the role of the new MFA Secretary for European Affairs remains of key importance.

    The new Foreign Ministry will play a crucial part in coordinating and handling foreign relations at bi- and multi-lateral levels. For all units operating under the Foreign Ministry both in Poland and abroad more activities mean greater responsibility. I am confident that the merger will add an entirely new value to the Polish foreign policy, contribute to strengthening Poland’s European policy, and make for a successful EU Presidency in 2011.

    I am delighted to welcome our new colleagues aboard the Foreign Ministry. I hope that we will work closely together drawing on each other’s vast experience and achievements.

     I would also like to give a word of thanks and appreciation to all those whose efforts over the past months made the merger possible. Although putting the finishing touches to the fusion may take a few more months, I can assure all our partners in Poland and abroad that January 1^st will see the new Foreign Ministry run smoothly, executing all duties which until recently rested with the two institutions.

       With the very best wishes for the New Year,

         Radosław Sikorski

• New organizational chart of the MFA