(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to visit Dublin on Tuesday, where he will meet with Ireland’s Prime Minister, Micheál Martin, marking the first official trip to the country by a Ukrainian president accompanied by the first lady.

During his visit, Zelensky will also hold a "courtesy call" with Ireland’s newly inaugurated President Catherine Connolly. Additionally, he is expected to participate in the opening of the Ireland-Ukraine Economic Forum alongside the Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee, according to statements from the Irish government.

Since the outbreak of war in Ukraine in February 2022, more than 120,000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Ireland, with roughly 80,000 estimated to remain in the country. The Irish government described the visit as a chance to highlight "the very close and warm relations" between the two nations and to reaffirm "Ireland's steadfast support as Ukraine defends itself against Russia's illegal war, and our recognition of the valued contribution the Ukrainian community that has sought refuge here has made to communities throughout the country."

Speaking about the upcoming visit, the taoiseach remarked that the Ukrainian people have "inspired the world in their brave defence of their country and its sovereignty since it was brutally and illegally invaded by Russia." He added, "The people of Ukraine continue to endure the nightly onslaught of Russian missiles and drones on their cities. Their defence forces continue to defend their homeland with remarkable tenacity."

Martin emphasized the timing of the visit, saying, "The president's visit comes at a critical time for Ukraine and Europe, with efforts to bring just and lasting peace to Ukraine ongoing." He also expressed his anticipation for discussions on how Ireland can contribute to supporting Ukraine and ensure that the country "comes to the negotiating table in as strong a position as possible."

The two leaders have met previously, including a brief stop at Shannon Airport in February 2023 en route to the US and during Martin’s visit to Kyiv in July 2022.

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