Joint Statement by the Taoiseach and Prime Minister of Canada - Ottawa, 25 September 2025

Today Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held a successful bilateral meeting in Ottawa, and reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Canada and Ireland, anchored in shared democratic values, deep historical ties, and vibrant people-to-people connections.

The leaders reiterated their shared commitment to a rules-based international order. They expressed continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and emphasised the urgent need for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, grounded in a two-state solution.

The leaders agreed to continue to deepen collaboration and to work together to address global challenges and advance mutual interests.

Economic Prosperity:

The leaders recognised the transformative potential of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), with Canada-Ireland merchandise trade having grown 98.5% by value since its provisional application began in 2017.

The leaders agreed on the importance of Ireland’s full ratification of the agreement by 2026, and committed to leveraging CETA to unlock new opportunities for businesses, enhance regulatory cooperation, and promote inclusive and sustainable growth.

The leaders welcomed the launch of the Canada–Ireland Economic Impact Report, which highlights the growing strength of bilateral trade and investment. They reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic ties across many sectors.

To build on this momentum, the Taoiseach announced plans to return to Canada with a high-level trade delegation following CETA ratification.

In the interim, both leaders welcomed the upcoming Ministerial-led Trade Mission to Canada in November, as well as targeted sectoral visits aimed at expanding investment flows and fostering strategic partnerships with a particular focus on energy, security and innovation.

Political and Diplomatic Partnership:

Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. The Taoiseach acknowledged the extraordinary contribution of Canada to the Good Friday Agreement, and both leaders welcomed the announcement of the De Chastelain Scholarship Programme, a partnership between the Canadian and Irish Governments, which will promote peace and reconciliation and strengthen academic ties.

They also welcomed the recently announced Agreement on The Legacy of the Troubles: A Joint Framework on the Legacy of the Troubles between Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland.

Acknowledging the profound historical and diaspora connections between Canada and Ireland, the leaders look forward the Canada–Ireland 180 landmark cultural initiative to be held in 2027, commemorating 180 years since the Famine migration of 1847. This initiative will celebrate shared heritage and deepen cultural exchange.

Looking Ahead:

The Taoiseach extended an invitation to Prime Minister Carney to undertake an official visit to Ireland in 2026. Both leaders expressed their commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation, and to further deepening the Canada –Ireland partnership for future generations.

ENDS