The Taoiseach discussing the global problem of HIV/Aids as well as international security with United Nations Secretary General Mr Kofi Annan in Dublin today.
The issue of EU-UN co-operation in international peacekeeping and the proposal for so-called "battlegroups" to deal with military crises are being discussed during a working lunch in Farmleigh House.
Mr Annan ends a four-day visit to the Republic today. In an address to the Forum on Europe at Dublin Castle on Thursday he strongly emphasised the value and importance of the "battlegroup" plan.
The EU is preparing the establishment of 10 such military units, drawn from different member-states and consisting of about 1,500 soldiers each, which could be sent to trouble spots at 10 days' notice. The groups would be under the political control and strategic direction of the EU Council of Ministers, acting through its Political and Security Committee. Irish participation is still at issue.
Mr Ahern and Mr Annan are also expected to discuss UN efforts to help the people of the Darfur region of Sudan.