The men began with a ‘warm’ discussion about their roles and families, and will hold a bilateral meeting in person in the future.
New Irish premier Simon Harris has said he had a “productive and engaging” phone call with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday.
During the 20-minute phone call they discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the war in Ukraine, the resumption of powersharing in Northern Ireland, developments since Brexit and the recent North-South Ministerial Council.
The men began with a “warm” discussion about their roles and families, and will hold a bilateral meeting in person in the future.
Productive and engaging call with UK PM @RishiSunak this afternoon. The British-Irish relationship is of huge importance and I will continue to develop the strong links that exist between both nations. pic.twitter.com/7Qs6JL9Wed
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) April 10, 2024
A Downing Street spokesman said: “The Prime Minister spoke to Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris this afternoon, on the 26th anniversary since the signing of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement, to congratulate him on his appointment.
“The Prime Minister and Taoiseach began by reflecting on the strong UK-Ireland bilateral relationship and the shared importance of stability in Northern Ireland.
“They agreed that the restoration of the devolved institutions underpinned and deepened the British-Irish bilateral relationship.
“They discussed the strengthening of the economic ties and growth in bilateral trade between the UK and Ireland as the closest of neighbours.
“Turning to the Middle East, they agreed that Hamas should unconditionally release the remaining hostages from the deplorable 7th of October attack on Israel and expressed their grave concern over the worsening humanitarian situation and the need for Israel to accelerate the scale of aid delivered to Gaza.
“The Prime Minister reiterated his position that a two-state solution provided the best basis for a political settlement.
“On Ukraine, the leaders agreed on the vital importance of supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and protect European security.
“The Prime Minister looked forward to working more closely with the Taoiseach on this important shared priority.
“The leaders agreed to stay in contact in the coming months and the Prime Minister said he looked forward to welcoming the Taoiseach to the UK-hosted European Political Summit in July.”
