Strengthening EU Cooperation
Minister Byrne is meeting with Jessica Rosencrantz, Sweden’s Minister for European Union Affairs and Nordic Cooperation, on 16–17 October 2025. Their discussions are centered on Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026, the EU’s policy agenda, and pressing issues of security and defence. Byrne underlined that Ireland and Sweden share common priorities on competitiveness, the Single Market, and the EU budget, making Stockholm a key partner in shaping the Union’s direction.
Engagements in Stockholm
During his visit, Byrne is also scheduled to:
- Meet the Sweden–Ireland Parliamentary Friendship Group.
- Address the EU Affairs Committee of the Swedish Parliament.
- Engage with the Ireland–Sweden Chamber of Commerce.
- Consult with security and defence experts on preparedness and resilience.
These meetings are designed to deepen bilateral ties and ensure alignment on EU‑wide initiatives ahead of Ireland’s presidency term.
Focus on Ukraine and Enlargement
A central theme of the talks is the war in Ukraine. Byrne reiterated that Ireland and Sweden stand in full solidarity with Kyiv, pledging continued support alongside EU partners in the face of Russia’s aggression. He also highlighted the importance of discussing the future of EU enlargement, a topic gaining momentum as candidate countries in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans seek closer integration.
Strategic Context
Ireland will assume the EU Council Presidency from July to December 2026, a period expected to be dominated by debates on economic competitiveness, enlargement, and security policy. Sweden, which joined NATO in 2023, brings a strong security perspective to the partnership, complementing Ireland’s focus on EU institutional priorities.
Outlook
Byrne’s Stockholm visit underscores Ireland’s proactive engagement with EU partners as it prepares for its presidency. The discussions with Sweden are expected to reinforce shared commitments to economic resilience, democratic values, and collective security, while ensuring that Ireland’s presidency agenda reflects both national and European priorities.
In summary, Byrne’s visit highlights Ireland’s determination to strengthen EU cooperation, advance its presidency preparations, and reaffirm solidarity with Ukraine at a time of heightened geopolitical challenges.
Source: Department of Foreign Affairs, Government of Ireland gov.ie.
