Greetings exchanged between Foreign Minister Baerbock and Ireland, as well as the United Kingdom
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is embarking on a diplomatic journey, starting with a visit to Ireland on December 8, followed by a trip to London on December 9. The focus of this mission is to strengthen bilateral relationships, particularly with Great Britain, and to ensure the peace in Northern Ireland is preserved.
The Annual Strategic Dialogue between Germany and the UK will take place in London on December 9. Minister Baerbock's British counterpart for this event is yet to be named. During the dialogue, the two ministers will discuss a range of topics, including defense and security policy, economy, and education.
Brexit will be a central topic on both legs of Minister Baerbock's trip, particularly for Ireland and the United Kingdom. The implications of Brexit for trade, freedom of movement, and other areas pose a threat to the peace in Northern Ireland, a region that has seen significant progress since the Good Friday Agreement was signed in 1998.
In Ireland, Minister Baerbock will meet with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney. She will also have an opportunity to engage with 'Shamrock' children and their descendants, a tradition that symbolises the close relationship between Germany and Ireland.
Ireland, a significant supporter of the EU, has a substantial potential in green hydrogen production. Its energy generation potential, particularly in wind power, is estimated to be up to 70 gigawatts, surpassing its own energy needs. This makes Ireland an attractive partner for Germany in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
The Northern Ireland Protocol, a key agreement that allows Northern Irish and Irish products to be sold without customs or border checks in Dublin and Belfast, protects against a hard border on the island of Ireland and the reopening of old wounds. All parties - EU member states and the UK - bear responsibility for maintaining and implementing this protocol.
Minister Baerbock has emphasised before her departure that the peace in Northern Ireland must not be jeopardized. She aims to strengthen practical achievements of the German-British partnership, including youth exchange programs, during her diplomatic mission.
In addition to her diplomatic duties, Minister Baerbock will participate in the German-British Königswinter Conference alongside her British counterpart. This conference will provide a platform for further discussions on the importance of maintaining peace in Northern Ireland and strengthening bilateral relationships.
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