Gilmore: Ireland can play 'constructive role' in Middle East

The Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has said Ireland can play an important role in helping with the Middle East peace process.

He made the remarks as he began his first official visit to the Middle East as Minister for Foreign Affairs.

During the trip he will visit Isreal and the Palestinian territories, meeting with key figures in the peace process.

The Tánaiste said he believes Ireland can play a valuable role in helping both sides to bring about a peace agreement.

Mr Gilmore said: "The tensions in the Middle East are creating a huge problem in that region and getting a settlement to the problem is a huge international priority.

"It is an area where Ireland can play a very active and constructive role and I intend to do that in cooperation with other European Union partners."