25. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade whether her Department will prioritise the promotion of peace-building and diplomacy during Ireland's EU presidency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50249/26]

The promotion of peacebuilding and conflict prevention through diplomacy and dialogue is a longstanding priority of Ireland’s foreign policy. It will continue to inform our engagement during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Ireland’s Presidency will be guided by our commitment to the values on which the European Union is founded, including respect for human rights, democracy, the rule of law and the UN Charter. We will continue to support a strong and coherent EU approach to addressing conflict and instability through diplomacy, mediation, peacebuilding. We will shine a light on the drivers of conflict and invest in community resilience in conflict-affected settings.

Ireland will work closely with international, regional and local partners to strengthen peacebuilding, mediation, conflict prevention and conflict analysis, recognising that sustainable peace depends on inclusive dialogue, local ownership and long-term partnership. The experience of peacebuilding on the island of Ireland illustrates the profound importance of dialogue, partnership and sustained international support. The success of the peace process in Northern Ireland, enabled through the commitment of communities and institutions, and supported by the EU and international partners, illustrates the contribution that diplomacy and political leadership can make to building lasting peace.

As a committed supporter of multilateralism and the international legal order, Ireland will work to strengthen the EU’s role as a global actor for peace. At a time of increasing global instability and protracted conflict, Ireland will support EU efforts to advance a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, to promote lasting peace and security in the Middle East, and to strengthen the EU’s engagement in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and mediation across Africa, especially in Sudan.

Ireland will promote inclusive approaches to peace and security through the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas. Our fourth National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security reaffirms our commitment to supporting the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in peace and security processes. Ireland also recognises the important role of young people in preventing conflict, promoting dialogue and sustaining peace.

During the Presidency, my Department will work closely with EU institutions, Member States and civil society to ensure Ireland delivers an effective Presidency that advances the EU’s agreed priorities while reflecting Ireland’s longstanding commitment to peace, multilateralism and international cooperation.