Ireland Supports UK EU Ties in Talks with Andy Burnham

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham held an initial telephone conversation on July 21, 2026, to establish a diplomatic reset. During the call, Martin congratulated Burnham on his appointment, while Burnham congratulated the Taoiseach on the commencement of Ireland's presidency of the European Union. The leaders agreed to cooperate on shared priorities including energy, security, and the Good Friday agreement.

Martin described the engagement as a very warm conversation and emphasized a historic opportunity to resolve legacy issues in Northern Ireland. The two leaders expressed their intention to meet in person in the near future to further these discussions, which also touched upon Ukraine and the UK's commitment to strengthening its relations with the EU.

Following the call, Tánaiste Simon Harris stated that UK-Ireland relations are at their best point since Brexit. Harris affirmed that Ireland is ready to support the United Kingdom in developing closer ties with the EU, noting that such a relationship serves the interests of the UK, the EU, and Ireland as the 30th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement approaches.