From:Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, today (15 July) welcomed former French Prime Minister Michel Barnier to Iveagh House, as Ireland begins its Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Discussions focused on Ireland's Presidency priorities, the future of EU-UK relations, and the strong and enduring partnership between Ireland and France. Mr Barnier, now a member of the French National Assembly for Paris' 2nd Constituency, is visiting Ireland for Bastille Day celebrations.

The Minister hosted a lunch in honour of Mr Barnier, providing an opportunity to celebrate the close bilateral relationship between Ireland and France, reflect on his role as the EU's Chief Negotiator during the Brexit negotiations, and discuss the opportunities and priorities for Ireland's EU Presidency.

Following the meeting, Minister McEntee said: "It was a pleasure to welcome Michel Barnier to Iveagh House today, on the occasion of his Bastille Day visit and at the beginning of Ireland's EU Presidency. Ireland and France enjoy deep and ever-growing bilateral relations. Our trade connectivity, our cultural and historical links, and our shared EU membership are bonds which unite our countries.

"As we look with optimism to a renewed relationship between the EU and the UK, it is vital to remember all of the work that got us here. Mr Barnier, of course, played a crucial role as EU Chief Negotiator on Brexit. His support for Ireland, his deep understanding of Northern Ireland and the importance of north-south cooperation, and his dedication to promoting EU unity, positioned us strongly to protect the gains of the Good Friday Agreement."

Earlier this year, Minister McEntee and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot launched the new France-Ireland 2026–2030 Joint Strategic Framework in Paris. The Framework sets out an ambitious agenda to deepen cooperation across a range of shared priorities and reflects the strength of the Ireland-France relationship as both countries work closely together in the European Union.