John Bruton
Question:7 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent meeting with the British Foreign Secretary, Mr. Robin Cook. [18926/97]
Written Answers. - Meeting with UK Foreign Secretary.
I met the UK Foreign Secretary, Mr. Robin Cook, MP on 3 November last. Our discussions focused on EU issues, notably the Special European Council on Employment, Agenda 2000, economic and monetary union and the priorities of the UK Presidency which commences on 1 January next.
We also noted the excellent working relationship between our two Governments especially in regard to the Northern Ireland peace process.
The meeting afforded a very useful exchange of views on EU issues. In particular I relayed to Mr. Cook Ireland's general approach in regard to the Agenda 2000 issues and he briefed me on the UK position on EMU in the light of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's recent statement on the subject to the House of Commons.
Overall, I believe that our meeting and indeed Mr. Cook's visit in general have improved mutual understanding of our two countries respective positions on EU issues and have helped lay the foundation for a fruitful co-operation during next year's UK Presidency.