Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2010
1725 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the trade agreements that are in existence between Ireland and Middle Eastern countries, including Iraq; his plans to expand trade links with the region and to break down barriers to trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33757/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland does not have any trade agreements with Middle Eastern countries. Trade policy is an EU competence and the EU is currently either in negotiation currently, or already has Trade agreements with both individual countries in that region or with country groupings such as the Gulf Cooperation Council. Specifically on Iraq, an EU Partnership and Cooperation Agreement was concluded with that country last year. Ireland's interests are taken into account in such negotiations and we can benefit from the terms of any such agreements.
I am very conscious of the trade opportunities presented by the key economies in the Middle East and we have developed strong levels of economic activity, particularly with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Next month I will be leading a Trade Mission with a large number of Enterprise Ireland client companies to both of these countries. My Department held a very successful Joint Economic Commission with our Saudi Arabian counterparts earlier this year, at which various trade and economic cooperation issues were developed.
The Government's new Strategy for Trade, Tourism and Investment, which was launched by the Taoiseach and myself yesterday, highlights the opportunities for trade with high — growth economies including those in the Middle East region and I am confident that we will continue to build on the progress made over recent years.
