Minister Cowen meets with Richard Haass
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D., met this morning with Richard Haass, President Bush's Ambassador at Large with overall responsibility for Ireland. Ambassador Haass last visited Dublin in early September.
Prior to his departure to co- chair the Round-Table Talks in Belfast, the Minister and Ambassador Haass reviewed recent developments in Northern Ireland and exchanged views on a range of current international issues, including the Middle East, Iraq and India / Pakistan.
The Minister reiterated the Government's commitment to the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. He stressed the importance of ensuring that all sides play their part in rebuilding confidence and in creating a context in which devolved Government in Northern Ireland can be restored in advance of the scheduled elections.
Minister Cowen also emphasised the determination of the Government to work closely with those involved to resolve all outstanding difficulties, including in the vital area of policing.
The Minister, who will meet U S Secretary of State Powell next week in Washington, took the opportunity to reiterate the Government's appreciation for the ongoing support of President Bush and the US Administration for the peace process in Northern Ireland. Top
