asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans, if any, for the establishment of diplomatic links with any further countries at present.

The question of opening diplomatic relations with states with which we do not at present have formal relations is kept under continuous review in the light of our international interests and the availability of the necessary resources. As I have previously stated in the Dáil, the opening of diplomatic relations requires the prior agreement of the state concerned and it would be inappropriate and contrary to international practice to speculate publicly about the Government's possible future intention.