📰 Irish and Finnish Ministers Deepen EU Cooperation Ahead of 2026 Presidency

DUBLIN — Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, hosted Finnish Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering, Joakim Strand, at Iveagh House on 17 September for a bilateral meeting focused on EU policy, security, and regional cooperation.

The meeting built on discussions held during Minister Byrne’s visit to Helsinki in June and addressed key issues including the war in Ukraine, European defence strategy, and the future of EU enlargement. Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026 featured prominently in the agenda.

Minister Byrne described the engagement as “productive,” reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to strengthening ties with Finland under the Global Ireland Nordic Baltic Strategy. He praised Finland as a “likeminded partner” on EU matters and emphasized the value of Minister Strand’s insights on competitiveness and security.

Minister Strand’s visit included a keynote address at the Institute of International and European Affairs, meetings with the Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs, and discussions with Wind Energy Ireland, reflecting a broad focus on EU affairs and sustainable development.

Thomas Byrne TD and Finnish Minister for European Affairs Joakim Strand Picture from Thomas Bryrne on X