Ireland will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union later this year. As part of the preparations, each EU member state is being paired with an Irish county to foster cultural, social, and economic connections.
‘We in County Carlow are immensely proud that Luxembourg, one of Europe’s most dynamic, forward‑thinking and internationally connected nations, has been paired with our county at the heart of Ireland’s South East. It is a pairing that makes perfect sense: two small places that punch far above their weight, driven by innovation, community, and a certain quiet confidence.’ Explained Norah Ryan, President of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, at a recent event in Luxembourg.
A delegation from Carlow County Council and County Carlow Chamber were invited by Her Excellency Jean McDonald, Ambassador of Ireland to Luxembourg, to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Luxembourg, providing an opportunity to expand relationships, celebrate shared connections and engage with the vibrant Irish community in Luxembourg.
As part of the visit, the Carlow representatives also engaged with the Enterprise Ireland Benelux team to discuss exciting opportunities for businesses in County Carlow and to identify pathways to expand internationally.
Simultaneously, the Luxembourg Ambassador to Ireland, Her Excellency Florence Ensch was accompanied by a delegation including the Mayor of Vianden, Francey Weyrich, to Carlow this week to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. The group were guests of honour at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Carlow Town and also met with a selection of elected officials and key stakeholders including Carlow County Council and Carlow Chamber of Commerce.
The connection between Carlow and Luxembourg runs deep – dating back to the 7th century when St Willibrord travelled from county Carlow to Echternach, the oldest town in Luxembourg. Over more recent years connections, relationships and friendships have evolved – thanks in no small part to the commitment and foresight of both the Irish Embassy in Luxembourg and the Embassy of Luxembourg here in Ireland, and the active Irish community in Luxembourg.
Carlow County Council have also been instrumental in building connections over recent years, and they are currently developing plans to build on these foundations over the period of the Irish presidency of the EU.
With this upcoming EU Presidency, Carlow’s partnership with Luxembourg provides a valuable platform to engage with key stakeholders, promote the county, and support future economic and cultural collaboration.
If you are currently trading with Luxembourg or are interested in exploring potential options to export to that region please get in touch to let us know.
