Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe has been elected president of the group of eurozone finance ministers.
He beat his counterparts from Spain and Luxembourg in a vote this evening.
His election comes amid fierce debate in recent months over economic stimulus plans for the bloc amid the COVID-19 crisis.
I am deeply honored to be elected as the new President of the #Eurogroup. I look forward to working with all of my Eurogroup colleagues in the years ahead to ensure a fair and inclusive recovery for all as we meet the challenges ahead with determination pic.twitter.com/9k8EQfWSJa
— Paschal Donohoe (@Paschald) July 9, 2020
The Taoiseach has congratulated Minister Donohoe on his election.
Micheál Martin said it is a testament to the Finance Minister's personal experience and skills.
Deputy Martin adds it's also good news for the country, and that it's very important to have an Irish voice influencing decisions and economic policy.
He said: "Clearly the message of his campaign - of Ireland and Paschal being a bridge builder between the different interests in Europe - I think was the telling strategy that enabled Paschal to be elected.
"He will have his hands full, no doubt, because this is a very challenging moment for Europe."
