Dublin, 3 October 2025 — Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič in Dublin on Friday to discuss key issues in international trade, including EU‑US economic relations and the implementation of agreements arising from the EU‑UK Summit of May.
Strengthening EU‑UK Relations
The Taoiseach reaffirmed Ireland’s support for the Common Understanding reached at the EU‑UK Summit and stressed the importance of the Windsor Framework in ensuring stability and progress. Both leaders agreed that the full and faithful implementation of existing agreements is essential to sustaining constructive relations with the UK.
EU‑US Trade Framework
Discussions also focused on the EU‑US framework agreement on trade, which Martin described as providing “clarity and certainty” for one of Ireland’s most vital economic relationships. He expressed Ireland’s readiness to work with the Commission to secure additional tariff exemptions, particularly in sectors such as spirits and medical technology, which are significant to the Irish economy.
Broader Trade Agenda
Martin reiterated Ireland’s position as a strong advocate for open and fair trade, supporting efforts to diversify markets through balanced EU free trade agreements. He underlined Ireland’s commitment to ratifying CETA and welcomed progress in negotiations with Indonesia and India.
Context of the Meeting
The meeting took place ahead of Commissioner Šefčovič’s keynote address at the “International Trade – The Challenges Ahead” Conference, jointly organised by the Institute for International and European Affairs (IIEA) and the European Commission Representation in Ireland.
The discussions highlight Ireland’s dual focus on protecting its deep economic ties with the UK and US while also advancing broader EU trade diversification strategies in an increasingly complex global environment.
Source: Department of the Taoiseach
