Taoiseach Micheál Martin said it was his great honour to welcome President Volodymyr Zelensky on the first official visit of a Ukrainian president to Ireland.
He said Ukraine “has a right to live in peace and freedom”, adding that Ireland “stands with Ukraine in affirming these principles and these rights”.
“For as long as Ukraine needs our help and support, Ireland will be there for you,” he said. “Your struggle is our struggle. Success be our success. We are with you for as long as it takes.
“We’ll continue to do all we can to support a just, lasting peace for Ukraine. I’ve always been clear, nothing can be decided about Ukraine without the involvement of Ukraine.
Mr Zelensky said Ireland is a “neutral country” but not an “indifferent country”.
“We are grateful to it. You are helping us and we appreciate it … Ireland’s interests really matter because it is the influence of a large global community.
“May your influence always work in a way that is fair,” he said.
Speaking at Government Buildings the Ukrainian president “Ireland stands with us” because Ireland “respects freedom”.
