Helen McEntee, Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, is set to participate in an OECD meeting in Paris that will address issues surrounding competitiveness, innovation, and economic resilience. At this gathering, McEntee plans to highlight Ireland’s strategic efforts to bolster economic competitiveness through targeted investments in research, innovation, skill enhancement, and the expansion of digital infrastructure.
During the meeting, McEntee will introduce Enterprise 2035, Ireland’s long-term industrial strategy focused on fostering business growth, enhancing productivity, and creating jobs over the next decade. This initiative is a cornerstone of Ireland’s approach to sustaining economic development in a rapidly evolving global market.
A central theme of the discussions will revolve around the impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on innovation and economic advancement. McEntee is poised to elaborate on Ireland’s initiatives to hasten AI adoption, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. This includes strategies such as the Digital Ireland plan, support for European Digital Innovation Hubs, and the National Start-Up Accelerator Programme. Furthermore, she will discuss Ireland’s plans to establish a National AI Office and an AI Regulatory Sandbox, both aimed at fostering the responsible growth and implementation of AI technologies.
In addition to her participation in the main conference, McEntee will engage in bilateral discussions with international counterparts, including Todd McClay, Don Farrell, and Catherine Vautrin. These talks are expected to cover topics such as trade, economic collaboration, and broader international issues, providing a platform for Ireland to strengthen economic ties and collaborative efforts on innovation, technology, and sustainable growth.
The OECD meeting offers Ireland a significant opportunity to showcase its economic strategies and reinforce its role as a proactive participant in international discussions on innovation and sustainable development. McEntee’s presence underscores Ireland’s commitment to enhancing its global partnerships while promoting its vision for a future driven by technological advancement and economic resilience.