Minister Byrne in Slovenia for pre-EU Presidency visit

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is today (5 February) visiting Slovenia, for meetings focused on Ireland’s EU Presidency, commencing in the second half of 2026. As part of the visit, Minister Byrne will meet with the State Secretary for European Affairs of Slovenia, Neva Grašič.

Commenting on his visit, Minister Byrne said: “Ireland and Slovenia have a strong relationship marked by continuous and high-level political engagement. We are aligned on a broad range of European and international issues, in particular on EU enlargement, human rights, and the situation in the Middle East. I look forward to discussing major files on the EU agenda with State Secretary Grašič, including support for Ukraine, competitiveness, security and defence, the rule of law, transatlantic relations, and agreeing the next long-term EU budget.”

“In respect of EU enlargement, I consider our positions in support of advancing the accession process to be close, and it will be particularly useful to hear Slovenia’s perspective. During Ireland’s EU Presidency, I will chair the EU General Affairs Council, and I expect EU enlargement to be a significant priority. Strong EU unity, based on shared values, is of greater importance than ever.”

The Minister underlined the importance for Ireland to have a collaborative approach with all EU partners in order to deliver an ambitious Presidency agenda in 2026, for the benefit of all the EU Member States, and citizens.

ENDS

Press Office

05 February 2026