Ahern to defend EU-Africa talks

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will attend the EU-Africa Summit in Portugal today.

Overseas Development Minister Michael Kitt will also be at the high-level talks in the capital, Lisbon, which aim to strengthen the partnership with Africa and mark a new phase in EU-Africa relations.

It will adopt a Joint EU-Africa Strategy and Action Plan which commits Europe and Africa to develop closer political dialogue and to work together to address common global challenges, including climate change, energy and migration.

“During the Summit, the Taoiseach will refer to Ireland’s strong historical ties with Africa, including in humanitarian, developmental and peacekeeping service,” said a government spokesman.

“The Taoiseach will refer to the work being done by Irish Aid and NGOs in Africa in areas such as health, education and the fight against HIV and Aids, and encourage all Member States to make progress on the Millennium Development Goals.”

The Taoiseach is also expected to refer to the need for coherence between aid, trade, the environment, agriculture, migration and peace and security.