Tánaiste holds call with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs on UNIFIL and Gaza

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris TD, had a phone call with Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, today, during which they had an exchange of views on a wide range of issues, including the ongoing discussions at the UN Security Council on the renewal of the UNIFIL mandate.

The Tánaiste said: “I was happy to have the opportunity to speak with Foreign Minister Barrot today. I expressed my support for the leadership role played by France at this key stage in the negotiations to renew the UNIFIL mandate.”

The Tánaiste recalled the important contribution made by UNIFIL to security in Southern Lebanon, including by Ireland’s Defence Forces over many years, and expressed Ireland’s firm support for the continuation of the mission.

The Tánaiste added: “Minister Barrot and I also discussed the situation in Gaza ahead of the Gymnich meeting of foreign ministers in Copenhagen this weekend and the need for urgent action at EU level in response to the catastrophic humanitarian and security situation.

“We spoke about the recent publication of the EU-US Joint Statement on Trade and the ongoing work in relation to further carve outs in areas of interest for Irish and European exporters.”

“We also took the opportunity to discuss the further strengthening of our bilateral relationship through the existing Ireland-France Joint Plan of Action and the plans to develop the next iteration of that plan. The plan’s ambitious agenda reflects Ireland and France's shared priorities: supporting sustainability, increasing trade connectivity and fostering the digital economy.”