Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 and 3 together. I met with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Xavier Bettel, in Government Buildings on 13 June as part of his visit to Dublin to celebrate Luxembourg’s national day.

Luxembourg and Ireland enjoy excellent bilateral relations. In my meeting with Prime Minister Bettel I thanked him for his Government’s decision to open a resident Embassy in Dublin which is a very positive expression of these relations. Within the EU, Ireland and Luxembourg are often of like-mind in different policy areas and we are both very strong supporters of the Single Market. We frequently co-operate closely and effectively together.

Our meeting afforded us an opportunity to discuss a range of issues on the EU agenda, especially those for discussion at the June meeting of the European Council. On Ukraine, we were united in our commitment to standing with its government and people for as long as it takes. We both strongly condemned the destruction of the Kahkovka Dam and the enormous suffering and environmental damage that has caused. We compared notes on hosting large numbers of Ukrainians fleeing the war, noting the significant contribution they are making in our countries. We also discussed economic issues, including the need to protect and promote the Single Market.

We both want to see a competitive Europe, with an open and ambitious approach to trade and a level-playing field for business operators from all member states.

We also want to see the EU leading the world in new technologies including in shaping global standards and in making the green transition to a more sustainable future.

On irregular and illegal migration, we both agreed that this is a challenge that we need to work on collectively. No one country can deal with it on its own. We also agreed on the need for any approach to have regard for human rights and respect international law. I also took the opportunity to thank the Prime Minister for Luxembourg’s solidarity throughout Brexit. Following our meeting, I joined the Prime Minister at a reception, hosted by its Ambassador to Ireland, to mark Luxembourg’s national day.

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