The Government faces the major task of ensuring the EU operates effectively during its presidency next year, during which 10 new member-states will join, the Taoiseach said yesterday.
Speaking in Lisbon after meeting the Portuguese Prime Minister, Mr Jose Manuel Durao Barroso, Mr Ahern said the union would have to move towards achieving the goal it set for itself at the Lisbon EU summit in 2000. That was "to become the most competitive economy in the world by 2010, with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion".
The two leaders discussed the progress of the Convention on the Future of Europe where, Mr Ahern said, Ireland and Portugal shared many common approaches. "We both want an effective union which will deliver for all the people of Europe. We are both aware of the challenge that faces the EU in the coming years."
Mr Ahern's meeting with Mr Barosso was part of meetings he is holding with EU leaders to prepare for Ireland's presidency next year.