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Minister for European Affairs, Helen McEntee T.D. to visit Latvia and Lithuania for bilateral political meetings
The Minister of State for European Affairs, Helen McEntee T.D. travels to Latvia and Lithuania today and tomorrow. During her visit, the Minister will have bilateral political meetings to discuss Brexit and Brexit Preparedness. The Minister will also discuss the EU Strategic Agenda and the next EU Multi-annual Financial Framework, as well as the EU’s relationship with its Eastern Neighbourhood, with Russia, and with the USA.
Ahead of the meetings, the Minister said:
“I am very pleased to have this opportunity to speak directly with my Latvian and Lithuanian counterparts on our positions on the evolving issues facing the EU, particularly Brexit.
"My visit this week is part of Ireland’s plan for getting Brexit ready. I will outline the steps Ireland is taking for getting Brexit ready in the event of a no deal scenario, and hear what steps both Latvia and Lithuania are taking. Ireland continues to thank Latvia and Lithuania for their continued solidarity during this Brexit process.
Latvian and Lithuanian communities in Ireland have formed a strong bond between our countries and I am looking forward to contributing to further developing these relationships.”
Minister McEntee’s visit will build on last year’s very positive State Visit to Latvia and official Visit to Lithuania by President Higgins during each country’s centenary celebrations. Ireland has a strong relationship with Latvia and Lithuania in the context of our shared EU membership, and the welcome communities of Lithuanian and Latvian citizens living and working in Ireland.
In Riga, the Minister will meet with Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkçviès and with Parliamentary Undersecretary for EU Affairs, Zanda Kalniòa-Lukaðevica, as well as with the European Affairs and Foreign Affairs Committees of Parliament.
In Vilnius, the Minister will meet with the European Affairs Committee of Parliament, and with Vice-Minister Albinas Zananavicius, as well as addressing a public event on the theme of “Better Together: a united response to Europe's challenges”.