Kirsty McNeill has set out plans for closer cooperation with European partners on international development during a speech in Dublin on 8 October.
The international development minister’s speech, published on 9 October, accompanied her participation in a meeting of EU development ministers. She said it was the first UK attendance since Brexit.
McNeill argued that Britain and Ireland should continue to make the case for international development in an unstable world. She also met her Irish counterpart to discuss their approach to foreign policy.
Her speech described resumed discussions with the European Commission on development and closer links with officials in Brussels. Further engagement is intended to support practical cooperation.
The minister linked that work to the wider relationship with European partners and preparations for a further UK-EU summit later this year.
The intervention outlines diplomatic cooperation and policy priorities. It does not announce a new aid funding allocation or a decision for Britain to rejoin the European Union.
