Tánaiste to attend EPP Extraordinary Summit with EU Leaders this evening

The Tánaiste and Leader of Fine Gael, Simon Harris, will attend an Extraordinary Summit of the European People’s Party this evening, alongside European Prime Ministers, EU Commissioners, and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

The meeting will focus on the EU’s response to emerging challenges in relations between the European Union and the United States.

Discussions are expected to address recent international commentary and developments relating to Greenland, underlining the importance of respect for sovereignty, international law and the territorial integrity of EU member states.

The summit will also consider the growing risk of a transatlantic tariff dispute and the potential economic consequences of a trade escalation between the EU and the United States.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Fine Gael Leader said: “A tariff war would be damaging for workers, consumers, and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic, and that dialogue and de-escalation must remain the priority.

“Europe must act with unity, strategic confidence, and purpose in responding to global uncertainty, while continuing to engage constructively with international partners and defending the EU’s economic and political interests, the EPP will not be found wanting.”

The Extraordinary Summit takes place ahead of the European Council meeting on Thursday.

The Tánaiste will use the meeting to engage with European counterparts and to contribute to shaping a coordinated political approach in advance of the European Council.