Taoiseach to make official visit to Japan

The Taoiseach, Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D. will visit Japan at the official invitation of the Japanese Government from 12 - 17 January 2009. The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mr. Brendan Smith, T.D. and the Minister of State for Trade and Commerce, Mr. John McGuinness, T.D. will accompany the Taoiseach on the visit.

This high level visit of the Taoiseach to Japan follows more than 50 years of official diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan. During his stay, the Taoiseach will be received in audience by the Emperor, His Imperial Majesty Akihito, and meet with Prime Minister Taro Aso.

The Taoiseach will deliver a keynote speech on Research and Development policy and opportunities in Ireland at an IDA Ireland/Science Foundation Ireland symposium in Tokyo. Research and Development represents an important aspect of successful relations between Japanese and Irish companies. The Taoiseach will also deliver a speech on foreign policy issues at the prestigious Keio University in Tokyo.

The Taoiseach, Minister Smith and Minister McGuinness, will be accompanied by a significant Irish trade mission with over sixty companies participating, including businesses from Northern Ireland. Key state agencies such as Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Bord Bia are taking part with the aim of increasing the presence of Irish companies in Japan through trade, investment, research and development and other business linkages. A number of important trade and investment-related deals with Japanese partners are expected to be announced during the course of the visit.

Ends
5th January 2009