asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement on the progress of the trade talks between Ireland and Russia.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ireland-Russia Trade Talks.
15.
An official delegation visited the USSR in October, 1970, for the purpose of discussing the development of trade between the two countries, including the possibility of concluding a trade agreement. Useful progress was made and the talks adjourned to allow the various points which had been discussed to be considered further. It is expected that discussions will be resumed during the coming months. It would not be in accordance with established practice to disclose, at this stage, details of the matters discussed.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that we have a very large adverse balance of trade with Russia?
I would.
Does the Taoiseach have any hope that these discussions which are now taking place will abrogate that large adverse balance in any way?
That is the purpose of the discussions.
So we will hope for the best?
Can the Taoiseach say whether the question of diplomatic relations between the two countries has been raised in the course of these trade talks?
I have indicated that at this stage it would not be appropriate to say what took place in these talks.