The Taoiseach has had a conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump, covering topics such as the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Simon Harris participated in the call while traveling between canvassing events in the northwest of the country this afternoon.
Mr. Trump, who served as US president from 2017 to 2021, was re-elected to the White House last week following a successful election.
He is set to assume office on 20 January 2025, succeeding current President Joe Biden.
The Taoiseach noted that the two leaders addressed “the horrific humanitarian situation in the Middle East” and the circumstances in Ukraine.
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Mr. Harris stated that the “deep and historic economic ties” between Ireland and the United States were also discussed, highlighting Ireland’s “good” economic positioning and recognizing the strong performance of the Irish economy.
“I emphasized to the President-elect that the US and the EU must collaborate on many issues, including economic, humanitarian, and promoting global peace,” he remarked, proposing a US-EU trade summit.
“With the recent clarity on the political situation in the US, I believe it’s essential for the EU to implement meaningful mechanisms for engagement,” Mr. Harris said.
“The US and the EU are interdependent, and this cooperation is crucial for trade, investment, stability, and global certainty.”
Mr. Harris pointed out that the Irish-American connection functions as a “two-way relationship,” noting that while numerous jobs in Ireland are generated by US companies, Irish firms have created many positions in the US as well.
The Taoiseach referred to the conversation as an “important initial discussion.”
He added that Mr. Trump expressed a desire for the two to meet soon.
Characterizing the world as a “very grim and dark place at the moment,” Mr. Harris conveyed to the US President-elect his wish to see “an end to the loss of civilian life and a return to peace.”
In a statement, the Taoiseach’s office mentioned that both leaders agreed to maintain communication.
