Start of Ireland's EU Council Presidency Marked in Dublin
An event celebrating the commencement of Ireland's presidency of the Council of the European Union is currently underway in Dublin.
The ceremony is attended by Ireland's Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky.
This presidency term will extend until December 2026, during which Ireland will oversee negotiations and facilitate agreements among EU member states.
It marks the eighth occasion Ireland has assumed this role since joining the European Economic Community in 1973. The last time Ireland held the presidency was in 2013.
The event began with a flag-raising ceremony.
The previous holder of the presidency was Cyprus.
Speeches Highlight Ireland's EU Commitment and Support for Ukraine
Taoiseach Micheál Martin opened the event by welcoming European Council President António Costa and President Zelensky.
Martin emphasized Ireland's development as a modern, open economy and society as being closely linked to its EU membership.
"Ireland has always been a deeply European country," Martin stated, describing the nation as a "beacon of hope for the transformative potential of the European appeal."
He affirmed Ireland's steadfast support for Ukraine, stating:
"Ireland will stand unswervingly by the people of Ukraine."
Martin further expressed Ireland's determination to ensure that Ukraine attains the peace and justice it deserves.
The ceremony featured the performance of both the Irish national anthem and the European anthem following the flag-raising.
Zelensky Expresses Gratitude and Highlights EU's Role
President Zelensky conveyed his thanks to Ireland for its attention to Ukraine and congratulated the country on assuming the presidency, which he referred to as a "great responsibility."
"Ireland had stood by Ukraine from the very beginning of Russia's invasion," Zelensky noted.
He emphasized the need to protect lives and values against Russia's anti-European aggression and to address various challenges at both international and national levels.
"The EU has an opportunity and responsibility to be a force that brings more stability," Zelensky said.
European Council President Praises Ireland's Role
European Council President António Costa remarked that Ireland has consistently been at the forefront of efforts to uphold the principles central to the international rules-based order.
