Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to reassure the Deputy. This was the first opportunity I have had to speak to the new Israeli foreign minister. We had a long conversation lasting about 35 to 40 minutes. It was welcome. I have not spoken to him before this, he has not been in government before now. I believe in engagement. I believe in direct conversation and building relationships. That is the way to persuade people of one's point of view. That is the way one tries to influence governments in other parts of the world with which one may disagree on policy direction. That is the way Ireland can be most impactful in trying to give assistance and support to what I hope in time will be an acceptable peace agreement for both Israelis and Palestinians. That is our only objective here and it should be our focus.

See this speech in context