DUBLIN — Proceedings officially kicked off on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the ninth European Political Community (EPC) Summit at Convention Centre Dublin, bringing together around 50 European heads of state and government under the overarching theme, “Europe – strong, secure and connected.”
In his opening plenary address, Taoiseach Micheál Martin invoked the traditional Irish spirit of collective effort to frame the continent’s shared diplomatic, economic, and security priorities.
Key Highlights from the Opening Address
9th European Political Community (EPC) Summit Overview
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| LOCATION: Convention Centre Dublin, Ireland |
| ATTENDANCE: Approximately 50 European Heads of State and Government |
| CORE CONCEPT: "Meitheal" — collective community effort for shared goals |
| KEY PRIORITIES: Economic competitiveness, EU security, support for Ukraine|
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- The Spirit of “Meitheal”: Highlighting the importance of continental cooperation, Martin told assembled leaders: “Irish people have a deep understanding of the meaning of community. We have a very special Gaelic term that encompasses the concept, and it’s called meithal. And this describes neighbours and friends coming together to achieve a shared goal. And this is the essence of the European political community.”
- A Fairer, Stronger Economy: The Taoiseach underscored the need to foster a better and fairer European business landscape, advocating for a resilient EU economy that creates greater opportunities for businesses and citizens to grow and thrive.
- Continental Security and Defense: Martin emphasized the shared goal of building a safer, more secure Europe where citizens can live free from war and hybrid or conventional threats.
- Standing with Ukraine: Addressing Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the Taoiseach reaffirmed Ireland’s steadfast commitment to standing with Kyiv and supporting international diplomatic efforts to achieve a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.
Summit Agenda and Global Context
Hosted during Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Dublin gathering represents the largest meeting of heads of state and government in the country’s history.
Throughout Thursday, leaders—including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and European Council President António Costa—are participating in roundtable discussions focused on defending democratic institutions, strengthening energy connectivity, and coordinating European security policy ahead of an informal EU leaders’ meeting on Friday.
View of Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin, Flickr Picture by Ana Rey
