Taoiseach Micheál Martin has welcomed a United States proposal to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a positive step toward easing tensions in a region critical to global energy supplies.
Speaking at the eighth summit of the European Political Community in Yerevan, Armenia, Mr Martin said any move that helps reduce disruption in the strategic waterway should be encouraged. He noted indications of behind-the-scenes communication between Washington and Tehran and urged all parties to intensify diplomatic efforts to bring an end to hostilities.
“It’s essential that the Strait of Hormuz is opened up for the world economy and for all of the people of that region,” he said, adding that dialogue remains the only viable path toward long-term stability.
The summit brings together around 48 European and regional leaders for discussions focused on security, energy, and economic cooperation. It is the first time the gathering has been held in the South Caucasus, with major attention centred on the war in Ukraine and the ongoing tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran.
Energy security is expected to dominate much of the agenda, particularly given the disruption to global oil and gas routes linked to the Gulf conflict. Leaders are also engaging in bilateral and multilateral meetings covering issues such as democratic resilience, hybrid threats, trade connectivity, and the green transition.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is among the non-European leaders attending, reflecting what officials describe as growing alignment between Canada and the European Union on geopolitical and security challenges.
On the sidelines of the summit, Mr Martin is holding bilateral talks with Carney and Swiss President Guy Parmelin. Discussions are expected to include international security concerns, cross-border crime, and drug trafficking.
The Taoiseach also addressed Ireland’s long-term energy strategy, saying the country should seriously examine all available options, including nuclear power, in light of climate goals and recent energy instability linked to global conflicts. He pointed to Ireland’s growing investment in wind and solar power, particularly offshore wind projects, as key to future energy security.
Mr Martin said Ireland’s housing support approach for Ukrainian refugees will shift gradually, acknowledging that emergency measures introduced during the early stages of the war were never intended to be permanent. He stressed that future policy changes would be developed in cooperation with the Ukrainian government and the affected community in Ireland.
He added that the prolonged conflict has had significant economic consequences for Ukraine due to large-scale population displacement, and said Ireland’s response must reflect evolving conditions.
The next European Political Community summit is scheduled to take place in Dublin in November during Ireland’s presidency of the European Union.
