Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 July 2025
19. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline his engagements with the new United States ambassador to Ireland, providing details on the topics discussed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37854/25]
View answerTo maintain and strengthen Ireland’s significant, and mutually beneficial, cultural, political and economic relationships with the United States is a key priority for me as Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.I was pleased to represent the Government at the diplomatic credentials ceremony in Áras an Uachtaráin on 1 July, where the new US Ambassador to Ireland, Mr Edward Walsh, was among those presenting credentials to President Michael D Higgins.I was also pleased to represent the Government at the Independence Day celebrations at the Residence of the US Ambassador on 3 July.
It was a good opportunity to express my appreciation for the strong and positive bilateral links between our two countries. I also stressed Ireland’s willingness to work with our U.S. partners to find a negotiated solution that allows us to continue the flow of free trade without tariffs between the EU and the U.S.
I underlined the vital need to work towards an unconditional ceasefire in the Middle East, the return of all hostages and flow of humanitarian relief for the citizens of Gaza. Finally, I made clear Ireland’s support for the people of Ukraine in the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
I am scheduled to have a further bilateral meeting with Ambassador Walsh next week.
