From 1 July to 31 December 2026, Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), a significant leadership role at the centre of EU decision-making. During this six-month period, Ireland will chair Council meetings, facilitate negotiations, build consensus among Member States, and help advance EU legislation and policies that impact the daily lives of more than 450 million citizens across Europe.
As part of Ireland’s EU Presidency programme, each county in the Republic of Ireland has been paired with an EU Member State, creating opportunities to develop meaningful local connections, strengthen community engagement, and foster lasting partnerships throughout Europe.
Monaghan has been paired with Finland for the duration of the Presidency. In preparation for this partnership, representatives from Monaghan County Council and the Embassy of Finland in Ireland have been working together to develop a programme of activities that will showcase Monaghan, promote Ireland’s Presidency, and strengthen cultural, educational, community, and business links between the two partners.
The programme will incorporate a diverse range of public events, exhibitions, discussions, and cultural exchanges designed to celebrate shared values, encourage collaboration, and deepen understanding between the people of Monaghan and Finland.
Both partners look forward to establishing a successful and enduring relationship that will create lasting benefits for their communities and contribute to stronger connections between Ireland and Finland long after the conclusion of Ireland’s EU Presidency.
Please find the full programme of events here: EU Presidency Programme Brochure