Key Takeaways
- The British Ambassador to Ireland, Kara Owen, has expressed her country’s willingness to partner with Ireland on security issues in the Irish Sea and beyond.
- Owen has stated that the threats facing both countries have changed, and as a result, all countries are reassessing their security and defense measures.
- The ambassador has identified growth, infrastructure, energy, and security as key priorities for her role.
- Owen is learning Irish and has emphasized the importance of the creative sectors in both countries, which she believes make life richer and contribute significantly to the economy.
- The ambassador has praised the improved relations between the UK and Ireland, following a turbulent post-Brexit period, and has expressed her enthusiasm for her new role.
Introduction to the New Ambassador
The British Ambassador to Ireland, Kara Owen, has spoken about the changing threats facing both countries and the need for cooperation on security issues. In an interview with the Press Association, Owen expressed her enthusiasm for her new role and the improved relations between the UK and Ireland. She acknowledged the challenges faced by her predecessor, Paul Johnston, but noted that the current political climate and priorities set by the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach have created a positive environment for her to start her tenure.
Priorities for the Role
Owen has identified several key priorities for her role, including growth, infrastructure, energy, and security. She noted that many Irish businesses are interested in expanding into the UK market, and that the UK is a natural choice for their first internationalization efforts. The ambassador also emphasized the importance of collaboration on infrastructure, energy, and security issues, citing the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach’s launch of "intensive work" around infrastructure delivery. Additionally, Owen highlighted the need to manage the seas that both countries share, including energy production, environmental maintenance, and security issues.
Security Cooperation
The ambassador stressed that the threats facing both countries have changed, and that all countries are reassessing their security and defense measures. She noted that the Irish Government has been clear about its desire to enhance defense spending, and that the UK is happy to be a partner in this effort. Owen emphasized that security cooperation is not just about defense, but also about critical national infrastructure, cybersecurity, and maritime security. She acknowledged that Ireland is taking steps to enhance its security and defense capabilities, and that the UK is committed to supporting these efforts.
Cultural and Creative Sectors
Owen also highlighted the importance of the creative sectors in both countries, which she believes make life richer and contribute significantly to the economy. She noted that the links between the nations’ creative sectors are "worth huge amounts to our economy", and that they have the potential to drive growth and innovation. The ambassador also spoke about her own efforts to learn Irish, which she described as "enriching". She praised the Irish language and culture, and noted that she has been encouraged by the enthusiasm and patience of the Irish people, including President Catherine Connolly, who spoke with her exclusively in Irish.
Improved Relations
The ambassador praised the improved relations between the UK and Ireland, following a turbulent post-Brexit period. She noted that the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach have set a clear vision for the future of the relationship, and that she is committed to building on this momentum. Owen expressed her enthusiasm for her new role and the opportunities that it presents for cooperation and collaboration between the two countries. She emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and respect, and noted that she is committed to deepening the relationship between the UK and Ireland.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kara Owen’s appointment as British Ambassador to Ireland marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries. Her priorities for growth, infrastructure, energy, and security reflect the changing needs and threats facing both nations. The ambassador’s emphasis on cultural and creative sectors, as well as her efforts to learn Irish, demonstrate her commitment to building bridges and fostering greater understanding between the UK and Ireland. As the relationship between the two countries continues to evolve, it is clear that Owen will play a key role in shaping the future of UK-Ireland relations.
