Minister Byrne on pre-EU Presidency visit to Croatia

Minister Byrne on pre-EU Presidency visit to Croatia

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 4 February 2026
• Last updated on: 4 February 2026

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is today (4 February) visiting Zagreb as part of a series of bilateral visits to EU capitals ahead of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2026.

Minister Byrne will meet with State Secretary for Europe of the Republic of Croatia, Andreja Metelko-Zgombić, as well as engaging with Croatia's Parliamentary Committee on European Affairs to address key EU files in the context of our upcoming Presidency.

Speaking in Zagreb, Minister Byrne said: "My meeting with State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić provides the opportunity to exchange views and perspectives across a broad range of European and international issues, and maximise engagement with key partners ahead of the Irish presidency of the Council of the EU. Ireland and Croatia share common views on many EU policy areas.

"These meetings allow me to outline the priorities of the Irish Presidency and to hear the views of Croatia on a range of EU issues. In particular, I value the opportunity to hear Croatia's perspective on developments in the Western Balkans. Some of the leading candidates for EU membership are Western Balkans countries and, as a neighbour, Croatia offers valuable insights."

ENDS

Press Office

4 February 2026