Minister Byrne represents Ireland at OSCE Ministerial Council

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is joining Ministers from 57 countries at the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Ministerial Council in Vienna today.

Minister Byrne said: “Ireland is committed to the OSCE. The OSCE does vital work to promote security dialogue, peace-building and human rights, and is an important force for accountability. I call on participating states to safeguard the spirit of Helsinki and protect the OSCE for future generations.

“Ireland and the European Union stand in full solidarity and support for Ukraine in the face of continuing Russian aggression. At the OSCE today, I am proud to reaffirm Ireland’s commitment to a just and lasting peace that upholds Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty.

While in Vienna, Minister Byrne is holding a number of bilateral meetings with Ministers from participating states.

Minister Byrne continued: “I welcome recent advances in peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The negotiations underline the importance of a comprehensive and fully inclusive peacebuilding process.

During meetings with high-level OSCE officials, Minister Byrne outlined Ireland’s ongoing support for their work promoting human rights and democratisation, among other areas. The Minister is also attending an event focussed on the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

Minister Byrne added: “I would like to thank Finland for its contribution as OSCE Chairperson and wish Switzerland well as it takes on the role in 2026.”