Dublin Castle ceremony to mark start of EU Presidency

Ireland has officially launched its six-month Presidency of the European Union with a ceremony at Dublin Castle. The event was graced by the presence of European Council President Charles Michel and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

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This is a very important moment for our country as we take on the Presidency for the eighth time, and I am very grateful to both Presidents for helping us mark the occasion with an opening ceremony in Dublin Castle at which we will raise EU and Ukrainian flags.

Adding to the international presence, the College of European Commissioners, led by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will convene its weekly meeting in Cork. This move highlights the EU's engagement across Ireland during the Presidency. Taoiseach Micheál Martin held a bilateral meeting with President Michel prior to the launch, discussing the agenda for the upcoming term.

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In my meeting with President Costa I look forward to discussing how we can work closely together to deliver our ambitious policy programme.

During the Dublin Castle ceremony, Taoiseach Martin emphasized Ireland's commitment to improving Europe's competitiveness, fostering quality jobs, and defending the core values of the Union, including democracy and citizen safety. He reiterated Ireland and the EU's unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that supporting the nation against Russia's ongoing war will be a primary focus. Discussions also centered on increasing pressure on Russia to make its illegal war unsustainable.

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We want to improve Europe’s competitiveness - making life easier for our businesses and delivering quality jobs to its people.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee outlined key legislative initiatives for the EU's agenda, focusing on building a stronger, more competitive Europe, protecting shared values, enhancing security, and improving online child safety. The Presidency commences amidst significant challenges for the EU, including the war in Ukraine, the fallout from the Gulf conflict, and the imperative to boost European competitiveness.

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We want to defend the key values that underpin our Union, protecting our democracy and keeping our citizens safe.