R. Tamašunienė: Lithuanian–Irish cooperation is important in preparing for the EU Presidency
The Minister for Justice, Rita Tamašunienė, met with the Irish Ambassador to Lithuania, Seadhna MacHugh, to discuss Lithuania’s preparations for its Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation.
“In just a few months’ time, Lithuania will begin its Presidency of the Council of the European Union and take over this responsible role from Ireland, so cooperation between our countries during this period is particularly important. We wish not only to ensure a smooth handover of the presidency, but also to ensure that the issues most important to us are consistently kept on the European Union’s agenda,” said Ms Tamašunienė.
Lithuania will hold the Presidency of the Council of the EU from January to June 2027, taking over from Ireland.
According to the Minister, one of the key priorities of the Lithuanian Presidency in the field of justice will be European security and resilience, as well as continued support for Ukraine.
“Today, the security of the European Union is inseparable from our ability to strengthen resilience, defend the principles of the rule of law and support Ukraine. During Lithuania’s Presidency, we will seek to devote particular attention to these issues and rally Member States behind common decisions,” said the Minister for Justice.
The meeting also covered the key priority areas for Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in the field of justice, potential areas for further cooperation between Lithuania and Ireland, and the strengthening of bilateral relations.
Ms Tamašunienė thanked the Irish Ambassador and Jim O’Callaghan, the Irish Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, for their warm welcome during the informal meeting of EU Ministers for Justice and Home Affairs in Dublin.
Lithuania and Ireland have maintained diplomatic relations since 1991.
Last updated: 23-09-2026