PRESS RELEASE: CEUMC VISIT TO IRELAND

31.03.2023

Dublin (Ireland), 31st March 2023 – The Chairman of the EU Military Committee (CEUMC), General Robert Brieger, completed an official visit to Irish defence authorities, today.

“The contribution provided by Ireland for the implementation of the Strategic Compass, in a joint approach with all EU Member States, is very relevant for the overall success. We are grateful to its political and military authorities. Now, a common, credible EU security and defence objective is within reach. A steady commitment by all stakeholders, acting in coherence and synergy among each other, has never been so vital,” said Gen Brieger.

During his staying in the Emerald Isle, the CEUMC held meetings with An Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin, and with the Defence Forces Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Seán Clancy. Discussions focussed on the status quo in the implementation of the Strategic Compass, the ongoing debate about the adaptation of the EU Command and Control architecture, the EU support to Ukraine and the future of EU CSDP missions and operations.

General Brieger took the opportunity to address two distinguished audiences: the Joint Command and Staff Course together with the Senior Enlisted Leaders Standing Advisory Group (SELSAG), as well as the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA). In both occasion, the CEUMC was able to provide an overlook about the current geostrategic scenario and a foresight on what we may eventually expect, in the coming months or years. In this regard, he also provided the highlights of our efforts and achievements by the EU, in terms of security and defence capabilities and capacities to address current and upcoming challenges. “We have accomplished a lot, but a lot still remains to do. There is no time for complacency, as our security continues to be at stake.  No one can deal with all challenges alone: this is why we must join our efforts, with the most solid and durable commitment.”