Minister Richmond to meet First Minister of Scotland for Annual Ireland-Scotland Bilateral Review and Launch of New Bilateral Cooperation Framework

Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond will today meet with First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, at Iveagh House for the annual Ireland–Scotland Bilateral Review Meeting. They will also launch a new framework for bilateral cooperation that will set out shared priorities for collaboration across areas such as renewable energy, diaspora engagement, cultural exchange, research and trade.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Minister Richmond said: “Ireland and Scotland share deep, historic ties and a modern partnership rooted in shared values, cultural closeness and economic opportunity. My meeting with First Minister Swinney will be an opportunity to set renewed ambitions for deepening political, economic, cultural, and educational links between Ireland and Scotland.

“The new Ireland-Scotland Bilateral Cooperation Framework reflects the strength of our relationship and our ambition to work even more closely together in the years ahead.”

First Minister of Scotland John Swinney said: “Ireland holds a special place in Scotland's priorities, and we have much to gain by working together.

“I look forward to jointly launching the updated framework for shared cooperation with Minister Richmond. This builds on the great progress that has been achieved since the last framework was launched four years ago, and I’m sure our partnership will continue to go from strength to strength as a result of the actions within this new one.”

ENDS

Press Office

26 November 2025