“Strength with Unity”
Ní neart go cur le chéile. Strength with unity. We are thrilled to announce Ireland’s presidency of the EU under the motto “Strength with unity.”
Ireland will be focusing on important themes like competitiveness, values, and security throughout the presidency. The presidency will wrap up on December 31, 2026, and then Lithuania will take the reins for the first half of 2027, from January to June
To celebrate this special occasion, the Embassy hosted a delightful diplomatic reception and an art exhibition called “Carrying the Songs.” This wonderful event featured nearly 300 paintings by talented artists from the Netherlands and across Ireland.
Special thanks went to Ms. Moya Cannon for sharing her beautiful poem, which has been instrumental in this project. The celebration at the Pulchri Studio on July 7, 2026, was truly memorable.
Many members of the diplomatic community, including Ambassadors, representatives from international institutions, NGOs, the Irish diaspora in the Netherlands, and various other guests attended the celebrations. The 2026 stint however, is another fantastic opportunity to steer the EU forward, using our experience and a spirit of cooperation.
At the opening event H.E. Ambassador, Ann Derwin warmly welcomed everyone, saying, “I am delighted to welcome you all here for the Opening Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU at Pulchri Studio. Let’s make this an unforgettable journey together!”
The Ambassador went on to say:
“For the next six months, Ireland will be at the forefront of EU decision-making, leading essential negotiations that affect around 450 million people! It’s not our first time at the EU Presidency rodeo—Ireland has proudly stepped up to this role seven times before, often during exciting times of change. The 2026 term gives us another fantastic chance to guide the EU, drawing on our experience and commitment to working together.”
As Ambassador Ann Derwin enthusiastically shared in her opening remarks, “I am delighted to welcome you all here for the opening event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU at Pulchri Studio. Since July 1, Ireland has had the honor of holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and we’re thrilled to roll out an ambitious agenda. We’re focused on boosting the competitiveness of the EU economy, protecting our shared values both at home and abroad, and ensuring the safety of all our citizens.
You might have noticed that Ireland’s Presidency logo features a stunning spiral structure of galaxies, which was first spotted in Ireland back in the 1840s using the Great Telescope at Birr Castle. This beautiful spiral represents growth and suggests energy and movement—just like our goal to inspire positive change. And here’s a fun tidbit: the sketch of the spiral structure of the Whirlpool Nebula, created in the 1840s, is thought to have inspired Vincent van Gogh’s iconic painting, “The Starry Night.”
The motto, “Strength with unity,” perfectly captures the warm and inviting atmosphere at Pulchri Studio. It truly was a wonderful evening filled with joy and togetherness!
