Belgian Ambassador invited to visit Offaly ahead of EU Presidency

FINE Gael TD for Offaly, John Clendennen, has welcomed a constructive and positive meeting with His Excellency Nicolas Nihon, Belgian Ambassador to Ireland, and has formally invited him to visit County Offaly as Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in July 2026.

Deputy Clendennen said the meeting provided an important opportunity to discuss the growing links between Ireland and Belgium, and to explore how Offaly can play an active role during Ireland’s EU Presidency term.

The invitation follows the announcement that Offaly has been officially paired with Belgium as part of a national initiative to engage communities across Ireland during the Presidency.

Under the initiative, EU ambassadors will visit counties across the country between July and December 2026 to undertake public engagements focused on Ireland’s European relations and its role within the EU.

Speaking following the meeting, Deputy Clendennen said, “I was delighted to meet with Ambassador Nihon for a very constructive and forward-looking discussion. As Ireland prepares to take on the EU Presidency in July, this is a significant opportunity for the county to showcase our community, our enterprise base and our strong European connections. I was pleased to extend an invitation to the Ambassador to visit Offaly in the months ahead.”

READ NEXT: Council to make big step forward in Birr Rectory Fields project

Deputy Clendennen noted that the pairing of Offaly with Belgium offers valuable opportunities to strengthen cultural, educational, and economic links, particularly for local schools, businesses and community organisations.

“This Presidency will involve the whole country, not just Dublin, and I am determined that Offaly will play a role. Welcoming the Belgian Ambassador to our county will allow us to highlight the strength of our local communities, our agri-food sector, our SME’s, and our growing international outlook, particularly in attracting Foreign Direct Investment.”

Deputy Clendennen concluded by emphasising that Ireland’s EU Presidency presents a unique opportunity to strengthen regional voices within Europe.

“As Ireland takes on a leadership role at European level, it is vital that counties like Offaly are fully involved. Building strong relationships with our European partners will support regional development, trade opportunities and cultural exchange long into the future.”

READ NEXT: President of powerful EU body selected as 2025 Offaly Person of the Year