Cowen on three-day trip to Poland and Italy

The Minister for Foreign Affairs begins a three-day trip to Poland and Italy today.

Brian Cowen will be meeting political leaders in both countries, including President Kwasniewski of Poland, and Italy's Deputy Prime Minister, Gianfranco Fini.

Minister Cowen's trip is part of a programme of visits by the Government to current and future EU partners.

The enlargement of the EU will be discussed along with preparations for Ireland's presidency of the union.