Taoiseach to Meet German Chancellor Merz in Berlin Ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin will travel to Berlin today, 16 April 2026, to meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as part of a series of engagements with European Union leaders ahead of Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the EU Council, which begins in July 2026. The meeting comes amid preparations for Ireland’s six-month term at the helm of the EU Council, during which the country will prioritize competitiveness, negotiations on the Union’s future budget, security and enlargement of the bloc. The Taoiseach will brief the German Chancellor on these preparations and seek to understand Germany’s priorities for Ireland’s presidency. Germany remains one of Ireland’s largest trading partners, and both leaders reaffirm their shared commitment to the Single Market as a cornerstone of the European economy. Discussions will also address current economic challenges, particularly the impact of rising energy prices on citizens and enterprises across Europe. Following the bilateral meeting, the Taoiseach will join other EU leaders in a video call convened by French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss online safety and the protection of children. The visit underscores Ireland’s proactive approach to EU leadership, engaging key member states in advance of its presidency to align on shared goals and address pressing continental issues. No additional details beyond those confirmed in official sources are included in this report.
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