On her first overseas trip since Ireland began its EU Presidency, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee TD will visit Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, focusing on peace and stability, expanding trade and investment, and meeting Irish communities across the Gulf.

During the visit, the Minister will hold political meetings with partners in all three countries to discuss ongoing efforts to advance peace in the region.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Minister McEntee said: "Our Gulf partners have been directly impacted by the conflict and have demonstrated commendable restraint in the face of Iranian attacks. We hope that the recent ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran can lead to a lasting agreement that addresses the main issues at stake, including Iran's nuclear programme, and fully restores free movement through the Strait of Hormuz.

She added: "My visit is an opportunity to demonstrate Ireland's solidarity and to discuss how Ireland and the EU can contribute to efforts to secure peace and stability in the region. Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are also actively engaged in efforts to secure peace in the wider region, including in relation to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, and I look forward to discussing these issues with my counterparts."

Minister McEntee also highlighted the growing economic relationship between Ireland and the Gulf: "My priority for Ireland is building links that deliver for people at home: creating opportunities for Irish businesses, supporting good jobs, attracting investment and ensuring that Ireland remains connected to the world. "That is a key focus of this visit. Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are important political and economic partners for Ireland and the European Union. We already have substantial trade, investment and people-to-people links, and there is clear potential to deepen them further.

"As Ireland begins its EU Presidency, I want to build on those strong foundations and work with our Gulf partners to grow two-way trade and investment, open new opportunities for Irish businesses and strengthen the relationships that support prosperity in Ireland."

She emphasised that closer economic ties with the Gulf align with the Government's Action Plan on Market Diversification.

According to the Minister: "The Gulf is a dynamic and rapidly changing region, with major investment in technology, infrastructure, renewable energy, financial services, healthcare, education and innovation. Irish companies have much to offer, and it is important that we assist them in gaining access new markets and develop new partnerships.

"Together with colleagues across Government and our agencies on the ground, I am determined to develop more opportunities for Irish businesses in this key region and to strengthen the investment and trade relationships that support jobs and growth at home."

The Minister will also meet with Irish communities in the region. "Many Irish people have made their home in the Gulf region. They make important contributions across business, education, healthcare and many other sectors, while representing Ireland with distinction.

"These communities have faced unprecedented challenges in recent months. I look forward to meeting members of the Irish community, hearing directly from them, and thanking them for the vital role they play in strengthening Ireland's ties with the region."

In Saudi Arabia, Minister McEntee will meet a group of women to hear their perspectives on the country's social and economic changes. She said: "I also look forward to meeting a group of accomplished Saudi women, including graduates of Irish universities and women working in aviation, to hear their perspectives on Saudi Arabia's ongoing social and economic transformation."