Minister Byrne in Paris in advance of EU Presidency

Minister Byrne in Paris in advance of EU Presidency

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 29 April 2026
• Last updated on: 29 April 2026

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is in Paris today (29 April) for engagements with Minister Delegate for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, and Minister Delegate for Armed Forces and Veteran Affairs, Alice Rufo, in advance of Ireland's EU Presidency.

Minister Byrne will meet with Minister Haddad to discuss key files on the European agenda, in advance of Ireland's upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU, beginning on 1 July.

Commenting on the visit, Minister Byrne said: "My visit to Paris is an opportunity to gain the French government perspective on issues that will be high on Ireland's agenda during our EU Presidency, including negotiations concerning the EU's long-term budget, boosting European competitiveness, and driving simplification, as well as progressing EU enlargement, and the rule of law."

Following their bilateral meeting, Minister Byrne and Minister Haddad will speak at an event, organised by the Paris School of International Affairs, at Sciences Po. The event will focus on the current EU agenda and Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency.

ENDS

Press Office

29 April 2026

Notes to Editors:

Further information on the France-Ireland 2026 - 2030 Joint Strategic Framework can be found here.