🌐 Ireland Deputy PM Simon Harris Meets German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul to Strengthen Bilateral and EU Cooperation

Berlin, 4 July 2025 – Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris met with German Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in Berlin for a wide-ranging diplomatic exchange focused on deepening Irish-German relations and advancing shared European priorities.

🤝 Bilateral Relations and Strategic Alignment
The meeting reaffirmed the strength of Ireland-Germany ties, underpinned by successive Joint Plans of Action since 2018. Both ministers emphasized their countries’ roles as transatlantic partners with robust political and trade relationships, and discussed cooperation on EU competitiveness, enlargement, and budgetary planning ahead of Ireland’s 2026 EU Council Presidency.

🇺🇦 Support for Ukraine
Tánaiste Harris condemned Russia’s latest airstrikes on Ukraine, calling them incompatible with peace efforts. He reiterated Ireland and Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and emphasized the importance of advancing Ukraine’s EU accession process as a long-term guarantee of stability.

🕊️ Middle East and Global Security
Discussions also covered the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the situation in the West Bank, and the review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Both ministers stressed the urgency of securing a ceasefire, releasing hostages, and delivering humanitarian aid. They also addressed concerns over Iran’s nuclear program, expressing hope for a negotiated resolution.

📈 EU Priorities Ahead of Ireland’s Presidency
With Ireland set to assume the EU Council Presidency in mid-2026, the Tánaiste and Minister Wadephul exchanged views on key policy areas including the Multiannual Financial Framework, EU enlargement, and digital and economic resilience. Germany was described as a “vital partner” in shaping these priorities.

For the full statement, visit the Department of Foreign Affairs press release.