From:Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Minister McEntee chairs a meeting of the Government Trade Forum focusing on defence, security and economic resilience - 29/06/2026

This morning, Helen McEntee, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence, will chair a meeting of the Government Trade Forum with a specific focus on defence, security and how we can strengthen our economic security and resilience.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, Minister McEntee said:

“The Government Trade Forum will today focus on one of the defining economic challenges of our time; how we strengthen Ireland’s economic security and resilience in an increasingly uncertain world.

“Ireland is one of the most open trading economies anywhere. Our prosperity depends on international trade, investment and innovation. But the world has changed significantly in recent years.

“Geopolitical instability, cyber threats, supply chain disruption and the protection of critical infrastructure have brought economic security much higher up the international agenda.

“As a Government, we need to ensure Ireland is well positioned to respond to those challenges while continuing to champion free, open and rules-based trade.

“The discussion with business, enterprise agencies and other stakeholders will examine how Ireland can build greater resilience, support innovation and ensure Irish companies are well placed to benefit from emerging opportunities across areas such as cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, space technologies, artificial intelligence and other high-value sectors. It will also consider how Ireland can maximise participation in relevant European research and innovation programmes, strengthen our competitiveness and ensure that our administrative and regulatory frameworks enable Irish businesses to grow.

“Ireland’s policy of military neutrality is clear and unchanged. However, like other neutral European countries, we recognise that developments in security, technology and economic resilience present significant opportunities for Irish enterprise. There is a growing number of innovative Irish companies operating in areas including cyber security, photonics, AI, advanced communications and space technologies. We want to ensure they have every opportunity to compete successfully, create high-quality jobs and become part of Europe’s future industrial and innovation ecosystem.

“Economic security is about protecting what makes Ireland strong while creating the conditions for future growth. It means safeguarding critical infrastructure, strengthening supply chains, supporting research and innovation, protecting sensitive technologies and ensuring our economy remains resilient in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. This meeting is an important opportunity to hear directly from business and stakeholders as Government continues to develop policies that enhance Ireland’s resilience, competitiveness and long-term economic prosperity.”