Helen McEntee, Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, is set to participate in a crucial OECD meeting in Paris, where discussions will center on competitiveness, innovation, and economic resilience. This meeting provides a platform for McEntee to emphasize Ireland’s strategies in enhancing economic competitiveness through targeted investments in research, innovation, skills development, finance accessibility, and digital infrastructure.

One of the highlights of McEntee’s presentation will be Enterprise 2035, Ireland’s long-term industrial strategy designed to foster business growth, enhance productivity, and generate employment over the next decade. McEntee will also emphasize the significant role that digital technologies and artificial intelligence play in spurring innovation and economic development.

At the meeting, McEntee plans to detail Ireland’s efforts to promote AI adoption, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises. Initiatives such as the Digital Ireland strategy, support for European Digital Innovation Hubs, and the National Start-Up Accelerator Programme will be central to her discussion. Additionally, McEntee is expected to announce plans for a National AI Office and an AI Regulatory Sandbox, both aimed at encouraging the responsible advancement and use of AI technologies.

Beyond the main agenda, McEntee will engage in bilateral discussions with international counterparts, including Todd McClay, Don Farrell, and Catherine Vautrin. These talks are anticipated to cover trade, economic cooperation, and other significant international matters. This engagement allows Ireland to not only share its economic strategy but also to enhance collaboration with international partners on innovation, technology, and sustainable growth.