Icelandic Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir announced at a press conference in Warsaw that the country will hold a referendum on launching membership talks with the European Union (EU). This referendum is planned to take place "within the next few months."
Redaksiya reports that at a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Frostadóttir stated that the government has not yet determined the exact date of the referendum, but it will happen "in the coming months." She added, "Within the next few months, perhaps we haven't decided on an exact date yet, but in the coming months, we will hold a referendum on the launch of Iceland's EU membership talks."
Frostadóttir emphasized that during bilateral talks with Tusk, they discussed the importance of "creating an opportunity and integrating Iceland more closely with the EU, while at the same time preserving Icelandic identity in Europe." She noted the importance of considering Iceland's unique Arctic identity, way of life, and resource utilization methods.
Tusk expressed that he would be "very pleased" for Iceland to join the bloc, drawing on Poland's experience as a "success story" in European integration. He also agreed on the importance of the EU "showing respect" to all countries and treating "large and small countries equally." Tusk said, "I would be very pleased to see Iceland become part of our community, even if it requires the EU to change a bit, to become more flexible; in this matter, I would like to work together with Kristrún, because it is in our common interest."
Tusk touched upon his personal experience with the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union, citing the changing attitudes in British society a decade after the Brexit referendum as proof of the belated appreciation for the value of EU membership. He stated, "Perhaps the best proof that it is worthwhile to discuss integration is the situation in Great Britain. If you ask people about Brexit, the latest polls clearly show that today 65% of Britons would vote for the EU; more than 80% of young people in Great Britain are in favor of possible EU membership. So, if you have the experience of Brexit, perhaps you know better than others that EU membership is something truly valuable."
In her response, Frostadóttir diplomatically stated that her government "will listen to what the Icelandic people want to do," but thanked him for recognizing Iceland's identity. Approximately 30,000 Poles live in Iceland, making them the largest foreign-born community in the country. As a sign of respect for their contribution, Frostadóttir specifically mentioned Małgorzata, her daughter's "favorite teacher in kindergarten." As a gift, Frostadóttir was also presented with a Prince Polo Polish chocolate wafer bar, which is very popular in Iceland and apparently her father's favorite sweet snack.