Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, is set to participate in a significant meeting of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris. The focus of this gathering will be on enhancing competitiveness, fostering innovation, and building economic resilience. At the event, McEntee plans to highlight Ireland’s strategies for bolstering economic competitiveness, which include strategic investments in research, innovation, skills development, and the expansion of digital infrastructure.
A central theme of the discussions will be the transformative impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) on innovation and economic growth. McEntee will detail Ireland’s initiatives aimed at accelerating AI integration, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises. Key programs supporting this effort include the Digital Ireland strategy, European Digital Innovation Hubs, and the National Start-Up Accelerator Programme. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to ensure Ireland remains at the forefront of technological advancement and economic development.
McEntee is also poised to discuss Ireland’s forward-looking industrial strategy, Enterprise 2035. This long-term plan is designed to support business growth, enhance productivity, and create jobs over the coming decade. A significant component of the strategy involves establishing a National AI Office and an AI Regulatory Sandbox to promote the responsible development and application of AI technologies. These efforts underscore Ireland’s commitment to fostering a robust and innovative economic environment.
In addition to her participation in the OECD meeting, McEntee will engage in bilateral discussions with international counterparts, including Todd McClay, Don Farrell, and Catherine Vautrin. These meetings are expected to cover a range of topics, such as trade, economic cooperation, and broader international concerns. Through these dialogues, Ireland aims to strengthen its economic ties and collaborative efforts with key global partners.
The OECD meeting offers Ireland a valuable platform to advance its economic agenda and engage with international partners on issues of innovation, technology, and sustainable growth. By showcasing its strategies and initiatives, Ireland seeks to reinforce its position as a leader in economic resilience and technological advancement while fostering international cooperation.