Cowen bound for Japan

Taoiseach Brian Cowen is to take his first major overseas trip as Government leader when he leads a trade mission to Japan later this year.

The dates and length of the visit, which is being organised by Enterprise Ireland, have yet to be decided.

“Planning for the trade mission is still at an early stage but it is timetabled to take place before the end of the year,” said an Enterprise Ireland spokeswoman.

Engagements in the capital Tokyo and major city Osaka have been pencilled into the provisional itinerary.

Mr Cowen is expected to be accompanied by a delegation including some Cabinet colleagues, Enterprise Ireland officials and business executives.

The Taoiseach is likely to use the visit to the island state to hold talks with members of the Japanese government.

Enterprise Ireland said the trade mission is aimed at capitalising on the growing export potential which Japan’s giant economy offers for Irish firms.

“Current exporters and those with a strong interest in exporting to Japan are encouraged to participate,” an Enterprise Ireland spokesperson said.

Enterprise Ireland is also planning trade missions to Turkey and the United Arab Emirates after the summer.

Mr Cowen had been due to represent Ireland at an EU-Latin America/Caribbean (EU-Lac) summit in South America last month but it was just days after he became Taoiseach and announced his new Cabinet.

The European Council summit in Brussels last week was his first official EU engagement as Taoiseach.