Taoiseach Simon Harris attending Special European Council

• Taoiseach to join fellow EU Leaders in discussions on international issues, including Middle East and Ukraine, and on how to secure the EU's economic prosperity in a more challenging global environment.

Taoiseach Simon Harris is in Brussels today (Wednesday) for a two-day special meeting of the European Council which will discuss a range of international issues, including the Middle East and Ukraine, and which will also look to the future of the Single Market on foot of a report from former Italian Prime Minister, Enrico Letta.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Taoiseach said:

"I am looking forward to attending my first meeting of the European Council where we will discuss some of the most pressing international issues as well as the steps we need to take to secure economic prosperity for Europe's people.

''In our discussion of the Middle East, I will be expressing my strong condemnation of Iran's attack on Israel at the weekend. The fact that it largely did not succeed, does not make it any less appalling. The EU needs to use its influence to ensure maximum restraint and to prevent any escalation in the region.

''I will also make clear my strong view that there should be an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, with the release of all hostages and the surging of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza who are in desperate need. I also expect to have conversations with like-minded partners on the question of recognising Palestine, building on my recent meeting with Prime Minister Sánchez.

''We will also discuss the situation in Lebanon, where there are over 300 Irish troops serving with UNIFIL. Lebanon deserves the EU's support as it works to manage regional tensions, to host a significant population of refugees and to overcome a challenging economic situation.

''I also look forward to discussing the EU's relations with Türkiye - an important partner and influence in its region. We want to see progress made towards a comprehensive settlement in Cyprus, and will discuss how best to support UN efforts towards that goal.

''On Thursday, the meeting will focus on the steps we need to take to secure our shared economic prosperity into the future. I will be arguing strongly for a deeper Single Market; a more ambitious trade agenda; reduced administrative burdens for businesses, including SMEs; greater access to private investment to help build European enterprises; and a competitive, sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.''

ENDS