Taoiseach Simon Harris recently engaged in crucial discussions with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni regarding Israel’s assaults on UNIFIL positions situated in southern Lebanon.
Both Italy and Spain maintain significant detachments of UNIFIL peacekeepers stationed in the tumultuous region.
During their dialogue at the EU summit in Brussels, the Taoiseach clearly articulated his viewpoint, emphasizing that the safety of UNIFIL personnel is paramount. He insisted that Israel honor its obligations under international law, as stated by a representative from the Government.
The trio also delved into broader regional dynamics within the Middle East. The Taoiseach and Mr. Sánchez took a moment to contemplate the necessity for the European Union to reassess its policies and relationships throughout the region, particularly following the ICJ’s advisory opinion released in July.
Harris stated that the EU’s migration framework must exhibit a greater degree of “firmness.” He expressed a willingness to consider “innovative” approaches, potentially involving the delegation of asylum processing to third-party nations.
“It’s crucial that we remain open to exploring… inventive solutions. Folks in Ireland might be a tad bewildered if I were to shut down this conversation completely,” he remarked.
“People across the European Union, including here in Ireland, are eager to see governments assert control over migration matters.” He added, “Irish citizens are known for their fairness and compassion. We appreciate the advantages brought by migration. Yet, there’s a palpable desire for a robust system with clear guidelines and consistent enforcement.”
The Taoiseach is participating in a congregation of EU leaders in Brussels, concentrating on the migration conundrum.
In correspondence to EU leaders leading up to the meeting, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that the Commission plans to advance new legislation aimed at the repatriation of migrants while exploring “innovative” solutions, which may include centers in third countries tasked with managing the deportation of migrants whose asylum applications have been denied within EU borders.
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Harris indicated he would entertain such alternatives, but criticized the UK’s thwarted initiative to send migrants directly to Rwanda, labeling it as “downright foolish.”
“The failure of that model doesn’t preclude the existence of viable alternatives. Europe has successfully processed migrants in various ways in the past. Thus, it’s essential to keep our minds open,” he stressed to reporters.
He expressed his support for President von der Leyen’s urgency in advancing components of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. This agreement was ratified by the EU in spring but is set to unfold over two years, with each member state responsible for refining their systems to facilitate its implementation.
It has come to light that the Department of Justice has established a specific unit to oversee the pact’s development.
The pact envisions fortified external borders, expedited processing and repatriation policies, and increased collaborations with third-party nations—highlighted by the contentious arrangement between the EU and Tunisia intended to deter migrant crossings across the Mediterranean Sea.
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Harris conveyed his intention to advocate for EU leaders to utilize available levers to encourage Israel toward establishing a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, particularly referencing the EU-Israel Association Agreement.
“I will steadfastly argue that, following the advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice in July, member states now have a responsibility to reassess the EU-Israel association agreement.
“This is a matter that requires resolution, and I will persist in advocating for it. I will also seek formal avenues to advance this issue in the days and weeks to come. Meanwhile, the coalition Government is determined to evaluate what further domestic legislative actions we can take,” he asserted.
When questioned about Tánaiste’s comments regarding a possible election before Christmas, he remarked, “My focus is on ensuring our Government completes its current agenda. Ultimately, it’s my constitutional duty to determine the most suitable timing for a General Election that aligns with the best interests of Ireland.”
“When is the right moment to ask the people of Ireland to renew my mandate? I’ve held the position of Taoiseach for just over six months. I eagerly anticipate presenting my case to the public and seeking their endorsement for another term.” He added, “I want this Government to conclude its tenure positively. We have worked effectively over the past four-and-a-half years, producing five budgets, and I will confer with my colleagues in due course regarding the optimal timing for these discussions.”
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
