PM call with Taoiseach Harris of Ireland: 10 April 2024
The Prime Minister spoke to Ireland鈥檚 Taoiseach Simon Harris this afternoon.
The Prime Minister spoke to Ireland鈥檚 Taoiseach Simon Harris this afternoon, on the 26th聽anniversary since the signing of the聽Belfast (Good Friday Agreement), to congratulate him on his appointment. 聽
The Prime Minister and Taoiseach began by reflecting on the strong UK-Ireland bilateral relationship and the shared importance of stability in Northern Ireland. They agreed that the restoration聽of the devolved institutions underpinned and deepened the British-Irish bilateral relationship.
They discussed the strengthening of the economic ties and growth in bilateral trade between the UK and Ireland as the closest of neighbours.聽
Turning to the Middle East, they agreed that Hamas should unconditionally release the remaining hostages from the deplorable 7th聽of October attack on Israel and expressed their grave concern over the worsening humanitarian situation and the need for Israel to accelerate the scale of aid delivered to Gaza. The Prime Minister reiterated his position that a two-state solution provided the聽best basis for a political settlement.
On Ukraine, the leaders agreed on the vital importance of supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression to defend Ukraine鈥檚 sovereignty and protect European security. The Prime Minister looked聽forward to working more closely with Taoiseach on this important shared priority.
The leaders agreed to stay in contact in the coming months and the Prime Minister said he looked forward to welcoming the Taoiseach to the UK-hosted European Political Summit in July.