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

Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimh. 1 go 8, go huile, le chéile.

My programme included engagements with businesses with investments or interests in Ireland. I spoke at a dinner hosted by IDA Ireland, which was attended by business leaders from the manufacturing, chemical, technology and finance sectors. The Minister for Finance, Deputy Michael McGrath, also attended. I met with senior representatives of multinational companies with a significant imprint in Ireland. These meetings are typically an important opportunity for company executives to update me on progress with their operations in Ireland and their future development plans. I participated in a panel discussion on the hard power of artificial intelligence, which reflected on the opportunities and challenges of AI, especially in the areas of diplomacy and defence. Developments on artificial intelligence were a focus of discussions throughout the meeting, with many policymakers and business leaders conscious of the need to balance the risks and opportunities of the technology and to regulate in a way that protects the public interest while encouraging innovation. This balanced approach chimes with the approach the Government is taking.

I also attended a foreign policy-focused event organised by The Washington Post, which was attended by other European and global leaders and heads of prominent international organisations. During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet with political leaders, including Prime Minister Recean of Moldova, to whom I reaffirmed Ireland's continued backing for Moldova’s EU membership aspirations, and newly elected President Thangam of Singapore. I also met with the chair of Open Society Foundations to discuss our shared commitment to freedom of expression and the challenges facing it in today’s difficult geopolitical environment.

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