The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., is visiting Rome for a series of meetings today (8th July), including bilateral discussions with his Italian counterpart, Mr. Vincenzo Amendola, Under Secretary of State for European Affairs.
Minister Byrne will exchange views on a range of European issues of common interest with Under Secretary of State Amendola, including EU relations with the UK, Covid-19 and the Conference on the Future of Europe. Minister Byrne will also meet with Deputy Piero Fassino, President of the Foreign Affairs and EU Committee of the Chamber of Deputies.
During his trip to Rome, the Minister will also visit the Holy See. He will meet with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States. They will discuss a number of matters including EU relations with the UK, Northern Ireland and migration.
Speaking ahead of the visit, Minister Byrne said:
“Ireland and Italy have always had a warm relationship, rich in historical and cultural ties. Italy is an important economic and political partner for Ireland, both bilaterally and within the EU. It is a G7 member, the current President of the G20 and it is the second biggest manufacturing economy in the EU. I am very happy to be travelling to Rome as part of our commitment to strengthening further bilateral ties with Italy. I look forward to discussing a number of EU issues, including the continuing implications of Brexit – an area where we greatly appreciate the consistent Italian solidarity and support for Ireland.
“The Holy See occupies a unique space in international relations and has a global reach that brings important perspectives to key issues of regional and global importance. I expect my visit there will deepen our engagement with the Holy See and allow us to work more closely in areas where we share common interests.”
ENDS
Press Office
8 July 2021
