Seán Sherlock
Ceist:344. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there has been any contact with his counterpart in the United States'. [8912/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 17 February 2021
Ceisteanna (344)
Freagraí scríofa
Strengthening bilateral relations with the US is a priority for Ireland as set out in our Programme for Government, as well in our Strategy for the US and Canada (2019-2025). With each successive Administration in the White House and each successive US Congress, our bilateral relationship has been valued and strengthened, to the benefit of our people on both sides of the Atlantic.
We look forward to working with the new US Administration on the many global challenges facing the international community, from the pandemic to climate change to promoting peace and security, as well as on issues of particular importance to our bilateral relationship.
On Saturday 13th February last, I spoke with my counterpart in the US, Secretary of State Antony Blinken. This call offered a valuable opportunity to congratulate Secretary Blinken on his appointment and to reinforce the commitment of the Government to strengthening both our bilateral relationship and wider transatlantic relations. During the call, we discussed areas where Ireland and the US can work together, including through the EU and our membership of the UN Security Council. We also discussed important foreign policy issues as well as Brexit, Northern Ireland and the importance of protecting the Good Friday Agreement.
Looking ahead, we will continue to maintain close relations with the new Administration, Members of Congress, across the aisle, and contacts from across the political spectrum. This engagement extends to our contacts at federal, state, city and local levels.
Ireland has always maintained close relations with the US and will continue to do so, including through our Embassy in Washington D.C., our other diplomatic Missions across the US and through the US Embassy in Dublin.