Readout of a meeting between UK Chancellor and Irish Minister for
Finance & Tánaiste Simon Harris who met in London today.
Chancellor and Tánaiste and Minister for
Finance Simon Harris held a warm and constructive meeting in
London today where they reaffirmed the close and enduring
relationship between the United Kingdom and Ireland and the
importance of sustained positive cooperation between our two
countries.
They discussed the budgetary and economic outlook in both
countries and the wider global environment, including the
economic implications of the ongoing conflict in the Middle
East.
They noted that the current conflict has already contributed to
volatility in global energy markets and rising inflationary
pressures. They reiterated the importance of diplomatic efforts
to reduce tensions and mitigate the wider economic impacts on
households and businesses.
The Tánaiste and the Chancellor noted the deep economic
interdependence between Ireland, the United Kingdom and the
European Union. Both ministers agreed that maintaining
sustainable public finances while supporting growth, investment
and competitiveness remains a shared priority. They discussed
opportunities for deeper cooperation in areas including trade,
financial services, energy security and the green transition.
The Tánaiste and the Chancellor reaffirmed their commitment to
strengthening Ireland–UK relations, including through the
British–Irish institutions established under the Good Friday
Agreement. They noted the successful outcome of the second
UK-Ireland summit held in Cork last Friday. They welcomed the
continued positive momentum in bilateral engagement.
Looking ahead to Ireland's forthcoming Presidency of the Council
of the European Union, the Tánaiste outlined Ireland's
priorities, including strengthening economic resilience,
enhancing European competitiveness, and deepening international
partnerships.
The Chancellor and the Tánaiste agreed to remain in close contact
and to continue working together to strengthen the economic
partnership between Ireland and the United Kingdom in the months
ahead.
