Ireland launches major review paper of foreign policy

Ireland on Tuesday launched a major review paper of its foreign policy, setting out key areas of focus for its global engagement.

The paper, "The Global Island: Ireland's Foreign Policy for a Changing World," considers how the country safeguards its peace, security and economic prosperity, and promotes reconciliation and cooperation at home.

"The protection of our citizens and the promotion of our values and our interests abroad are at the core of Ireland's foreign policy," the paper says.

The paper, which is available on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's website, is the result of a wide-range process of consultation in the first half of 2014, involving other departments, state agencies, the parliament, civil societies and members of the public.

The last time such an exercise was undertaken was in 1996 with the production of the white paper on foreign policy, "Challenges and opportunities abroad."

At a launching ceremony, Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny said Irish foreign policy is "more important than ever to ensure Ireland engages successfully at the heart of the EU and on the world stage."

"Our network of embassies and state agencies are making a vital contribution to the government's objectives of job creation and economic growth," he said.

Meanwhile, Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan said Ireland is "a country with a global people, economy, culture and outlook."

"Ireland's foreign policy is an essential tool to serve the Irish people and promote their values and economic interests abroad," he said. Endit