Minister Niamh Smyth meets Paired Countries Ambassadors

Minister Niamh Smyth met with Ambassadors of Cavan and Monaghan “Paired Countries” ahead of Ireland’s EU Council Presidency.

Minister Niamh Smyth TD has met with H.E. Mr Juris Štālmeistars, Ambassador of Latvia to Ireland, and H.E. Ms Leena Gardemeiste, Ambassador of Finland to Ireland, to discuss plans for the months ahead as Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The meetings reflect the strong bilateral ties that underpin Ireland’s EU Presidency preparations. As part of these arrangements, County Cavan has been twinned with Latvia, and County Monaghan has been twinned with Finland. These partnerships will play an important role in fostering engagement between Irish communities and their EU counterparts throughout the Presidency period.

During the meetings, Minister Smyth and the Ambassadors discussed the priorities and programme of work planned for Ireland’s EU Council Presidency, as well as opportunities for engagement between Latvia, Finland and Ireland at a local level. The twinning initiative is designed to bring the Presidency to life for citizens across Ireland, creating meaningful connections between Irish counties and their partner EU member states.

“I was delighted to meet with Ambassador Štālmeistars and Ambassador Gardemeiste," Minister Niamh Smyth said of the meetings.

"Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency is a significant moment for our country, and these meetings are an important step in building the relationships and partnerships that will be central to a successful Presidency."

"The twinning of County Cavan with Latvia and County Monaghan with Finland reflects our commitment to embedding the Presidency across our communities and regions."

"I look forward to continuing to work closely with both countries in the months ahead.”