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Taoiseach meeting Prime Minister Beata Szydło in Warsaw
Taoiseach Enda Kenny with Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydło in Warsaw today
The Taoiseach met with Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydło in Warsaw today.
The visit is part of the Government's programme of intensified engagement with its EU partners. The meeting with Prime Minister Szydło is an opportunity for the Taoiseach to have a detailed discussion on Brexit and other EU issues with his Polish counterpart.
The Taoiseach and Prime Minister Szydło discussed the future direction of Europe following from the recent meeting of Heads of State and Government in Malta as part of the Bratislava process, and the upcoming Summit in Rome to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Treaties of Rome. They exchanged views on the key issues facing the EU, including jobs, growth and investment, as well external challenges.
The meeting also provided the two leaders with the opportunity to discuss the excellent bilateral relations between Ireland and Poland, closely linked by the Polish community in Ireland, and increasing trade flows between the two countries.
In addition to his discussions with PM Szydło, the Taoiseach used his visit to promote stronger trade links between Ireland and Poland, including addressing the Irish-Polish Innovation Forum organised by Enterprise Ireland. He also performed the official opening of a new Bord Bia office in Warsaw as part of the drive to increase Irish food exports.
Speaking before his departure, the Taoiseach said:
We see our future very much at the heart of Europe. I look forward to exchanging views with Prime Minister Szydłoabout the upcoming Brexit negotiations, in which Ireland will play a full and constructive role as part of the EU team, and highlighting our particular concerns.