Warsaw - Joining the European Union boosted Poland's economy and sped up development, said a government report Friday as Poland neared five years of membership.

The Polish economy reaped the most benefits from joining the union, according to the report from the Office of the Committee for European Integration, which measures how well Poland meets EU commitments.

Average Poles have also grown more pro-EU and say it's now easier to work and travel abroad, according to the Polish Press Agency PAP. Poles list benefits like an improved job market, a better farming industry and their country's growing role in international affairs.

Sectors like health, culture and education have also improved because of EU funds, the report said.

The report also claims Poland has a chance to avoid recession thanks to EU membership and is considered one of the most competitive markets in the EU, reported PAP. (dpa)