It is a great pleasure for me and my countrymen to be received here in Iveagh House today for this most pleasant luncheon. We know that this House has a long history and was presented to the Irish Government by the Guinness family to house your Department of Foreign Affairs.

I would like to thank you, Taoiseach, for the most stimulating and interesting discussions that we have just completed. Though Finland and Ireland share to a large extent similar interests as EU member states and there are no bilateral problems between our two countries, it is always useful to exchange thoughts between good friends.

The relations between our two Governments have always been excellent. The previous Finnish Prime Minister, Mr. Esko Aho was officially received by your predecessor two years ago. The present Prime Minister, Mr. Paavo Lipponen will be your guest in June this year. There are also several other ministerial visits planned in both directions.

Finland and Ireland share many aspirations in their foreign policies. Both are heavily dependent on free and fair trade. Both remain outside military alliances, but at the same time are active members of the European Union. Likewise, both have traditionally participated very actively in the peacekeeping operations of the United Nations. Both are taking part in the implementation of the Dayton agreement in Bosnia-Hertzegovina.

We are looking forward to close and fruitful cooperation with Ireland during the forthcoming Irish Presidency of the EU. With a view to our own Presidency in 1999, we are especially eager to follow closely how you handle the challenge. Ireland is in the chair for the fifth time so we know full well that your performance will be hard to match in 1999.

Thank you Taoiseach for having us here today, and I hope to see you and Mrs. Bruton tonight at our reception.