Xavier Bettel's meeting with Thomas Byrne: Europe facing the challenges of the future
Demokratesch Partei website
On 21 February 2025, Luxembourg's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Xavier Bettel, held a bilateral meeting with Ireland's Minister for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Luxembourg and Ireland, as well as discussing key European issues.
During the meeting, the ministers discussed the priorities of the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which will set the budgetary framework and policy directions of the Union. Xavier Bettel emphasised the importance of a coherent approach to economic development and social justice in the EU.
Special attention was paid to preparations for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, which is scheduled for the second half of 2026. Key reforms in the EU economy, defence and international relations are expected to be discussed during this period.
Ministers also discussed EU-UK relations in the context of ongoing trade disagreements and the need to maintain stability in Northern Ireland. They expressed their willingness to engage in dialogue with the UK, but stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of the EU internal market.
The ministers also discussed possible trade duties by the US and their impact on the EU single market. This underlines the need for coordinated trade strategies and stronger economic ties within the EU to minimise the negative impact of external economic factors.
