Tusk not 'subservient' to Pope, deputy minister claims

Prime Minister Donald Tusk: photo - PAP/Leszek Szymanski

Janusz Cisek defended Tusk after Roman Kotlinski, MP for the liberal, anticlerical Palikot's Movement stated in parliament that the prime minister's letter had “destroyed Poland's image as a democratic state that values ideological pluralism and does not engage in religious disputes and fights,” as cited by Polish Radio.

Tusk wrote to Pope Francis that “Poland is willing and ready to further strengthen bonds and cooperation with the Holy See in the defence of Christian culture in Europe and the world,” wishing the pontiff “forbearance in fulfilling the mission of leading the Universal Church.”

Kotlinski argued that Tusk's words suggested that Poland was about “to start a new crusade.”

However, Deputy Foreign Minister Cisek refuted the allegations.

“The congratulatory message does not show any elements of subservience, homage, nor does it grease up [ “pour out torrents of vaseline” in literal translation],” he argued.

“Nor is there any reference to a specific religion,” he said, arguing that the emphasis was on “Christian culture.”

Palikot's Movement, which is the third largest party in Poland's lower house of parliament (Sejm), was the surprise success story of the 2011 general election.

The anti-clerical party has campaigned unsuccessfully to have a cross removed from the debating chamber. (nh)