Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Taoiseach Micheál Martin are scheduled to hold their inaugural official meeting in Manchester on Friday. This marks the first occasion an international leader will visit Number 10 North, according to a government statement released ahead of the talks.
The leaders are expected to discuss strengthening the UK/Ireland relationship, including boosting trade, security, and collaboration with the EU. Mr Burnham stated he was "delighted" to host the Taoiseach, calling it an "historic and proud day for Manchester." He added that "No10 North is all about creating opportunities for working people, and our partnership with Ireland as we improve the lives of people in both of our countries is a key part of that."
Mr Martin confirmed that discussions will include the "UK-Ireland 2030 programme of strategic cooperation" and "a range of matters relating to Northern Ireland," specifically mentioning legacy issues and the Good Friday Agreement. He also noted that EU and international issues, such as Ireland's current Presidency of the Council of the EU, the next EU-UK Summit, and the situations in Ukraine, Gaza, and the Middle East, will be covered.
Following their meeting, both leaders are scheduled to visit a local Irish community centre to meet with representatives from the Irish community in Greater Manchester.