Transatlantic relations, global security, to top EPP Group meeting in Galway

Over 100 leading EU lawmakers, policy and business experts will gather in Co Galway, Ireland, for the EPP Group’s Summer University taking place on 10-12 June. Transatlantic relations, the economy, competitiveness and global security are set to dominate the agenda of the three-day meeting. EPP Group MEPs will be joined by the Leader of Fine Gael, Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Simon Harris, and Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, during the discussions. 

EPP Group Chairman, Manfred Weber MEP, said the Galway meeting is very timely, coming ahead of next week’s European Parliament vote on the EU-US trade agreement: "We are delighted to be travelling to the West of Ireland this week for internal policy discussions on crucial issues such as the future of EU-US relations, competitiveness and global security concerns. Next week (16 June), the European Parliament will vote on the EU-US trade agreement, known as the ‘Turnberry’ deal. This is a vital step towards easing transatlantic trade tensions, while adding new safeguards to protect European interests, and ultimately restoring the certainty that Irish and all European businesses and workers need. Thanks to the leadership of the EPP negotiators, we are de-escalating trade tensions with the US. A trade war would benefit no one but only cause damage to Irish and all affected European exporters and risk job losses."

"The Geopolitical landscape has changed drastically, and our European way of life is under threat both from internal and external actors who seek to destabilise the EU. We must show leadership by promoting our core values, in strengthening our economic prospects and by protecting the livelihoods of people across our Union. We also need to be more realistic about the hybrid threats we face, as Russia continues to wage its illegal, unjustified war against Ukraine. We need to wake up to these security challenges and be better prepared as a bloc overall, while respecting militarily neutral states like Ireland," Mr Weber added.

The Leader of the Fine Gael delegation in the European Parliament, Seán Kelly MEP, says the event will be a welcome boost for the region: "I look forward to welcoming the EPP Group to Ireland later this week, alongside my colleagues Maria Walsh, Nina Carberry and Regina Doherty. We will debate significant future policies and look ahead to the incoming Irish EU Presidency. It is an opportunity for Fine Gael and Irish government representatives to engage with the largest political grouping in the European Parliament ahead of a decisive next six months. The visit will also provide a positive boost to the local economy in the West of Ireland, showcasing beautiful local and historical sites and the best of Irish culture, sport, and music."