Minister Byrne engages in European Forum Alpbach 2026
Thomas Byrne, Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, took part in significant discussions at the European Forum Alpbach in Austria. The event gathered key European leaders to debate the continent’s future and Ireland’s priorities during its EU Council Presidency.
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Thomas Byrne TD, Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, participated in the European Forum Alpbach 2026 held in Austria on 31 August. The Forum, established in 1945, serves as a pivotal platform for policymakers, academics, business leaders, and civil society to deliberate on Europe's role in global affairs.
At the event, Minister Byrne joined a roundtable titled “Competing in a Changing World – What’s Next for Europe?” alongside his counterparts from Austria, Poland, and the UK. The discussion covered critical topics such as EU enlargement, competitiveness, and the future direction of Europe—key focus areas for Ireland during its EU Council Presidency.
In addition, Minister Byrne engaged with senior CEOs and executives in a session on European competitiveness and held meetings with various EU ministers, politicians, business figures, and academics attending the Forum. Emphasising Ireland’s commitment during its Presidency, he highlighted the guiding principle “ní neart go cur le chéile – strength with unity,” underscoring the importance of cooperation for Europe’s economic prosperity and social cohesion.
At the event, Minister Byrne joined a roundtable titled “Competing in a Changing World – What’s Next for Europe?” alongside his counterparts from Austria, Poland, and the UK. The discussion covered critical topics such as EU enlargement, competitiveness, and the future direction of Europe—key focus areas for Ireland during its EU Council Presidency.
In addition, Minister Byrne engaged with senior CEOs and executives in a session on European competitiveness and held meetings with various EU ministers, politicians, business figures, and academics attending the Forum. Emphasising Ireland’s commitment during its Presidency, he highlighted the guiding principle “ní neart go cur le chéile – strength with unity,” underscoring the importance of cooperation for Europe’s economic prosperity and social cohesion.
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