Cowen to hold talks with Brown

5/8/2008 - 7:00:54 AM

New Taoiseach Brian Cowen will today hold official talks with British prime minister Gordon Brown in Belfast.

The two men are expected to review political progress in the North and to reaffirm commitment of the Irish and British governments to the peace process and to building prosperity.

The leaders are also expected to reflect on the bilateral relationship between Ireland and Britain and discuss key European and global issues.

Mr Cowen and Mr Brown will later meet First Minister Ian Paisley and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness at Stormont.

They will also address delegates who are attending the US/Northern Ireland Investment Conference.

The Taoiseach is expected to stress the Irish Government’s commitment to the development of the all-island economy.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, the Taoiseach said: “I am delighted that on my first full day in office, I will be meeting with British prime minister Brown, First Minister Mr Paisley and Deputy First Minister Mr McGuinness.

“Today’s meetings and investment conference are a mark of the huge progress we have made in recent years and a clear signpost to the better future that we are together building for everyone on the island of Ireland.”

Other meetings are scheduled today between the Taoiseach and US Special Envoy Paula Dobriansky and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Talks are also planned with incoming Democratic Unionist Party leader Peter Robinson and other senior political and business leaders from the US and the North.