Prince Albert II of Monaco and New York Governor Kathy Hocul visit Kerry to speak at the Global Summit

Killarney and Kerry will host a new charitable event bringing together 400 business leaders, policymakers and thinkers to develop new solutions to global challenges such as climate change and economic inequality.

The inaugural Global Economic Summit (GES) Killarney from May 20-22 at the prestigious Europe Hotel in Killarney will cover a range of topics including global trade and globalization, tech for good, international security, leading digital transformation, climate and energy and Sustainability.

It features contributions from truly internationally renowned guests, INTERPOL's Executive Director of Partnerships and Planning, Darrin E. Jones, and global C-level executives from Apple, Google, the World Food Program and the World Bank, as well as Paolo Benanti, AI consultant from, to hear his Pope Francis.

Of political importance, EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, former Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko and Finance Minister Michael McGrath as well as Enterprise and Employment Minister Peter Burke will take part.

The overall goal is to provide a platform for both international and national organizations that make a significant contribution to global solutions. Decision-making processes in today's environment are more layered and complex than ever before, and the summit highlights the importance of coming together for cross-industry dialogue.

Announcing the summit, Megan Cassidy, Chief Executive of the Global Economic Summit, said: “I am delighted to welcome our distinguished delegates, speakers and everyone who will be attending the Global Economic Summit to County Kerry later in May.” It is a momentous occasion for us as we embark on a journey to promote dialogue and innovation, and I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our partners and sponsors whose unwavering support made this event possible.

“It is an honor to have such distinguished speakers with us and I look forward to the insights and discussions that will ensue. Looking forward, I envision this event becoming an annual beacon of collaboration, growth and positive change. Let us work together to make this inaugural event the first of many significant milestones on our shared path to a better future.”

She said Killarney was chosen because it was ideal for such high-profile speakers showcasing Ireland and Kerry and provided the perfect venue for delegates.

“We had great ambitions for the World Economic Summit from the moment it was conceived. Given the quality of guests we wanted to attract, we needed a great host city and venue of international quality and reputation.

“The Europe Hotel is one of the best in the country with a stunning location on the shores of Lough Lein and the stunning backdrop of the MacGillycuddy Reeks. And nowhere does Killarney know better how to impress visitors and make them feel at home at the same time.

“Kerry is internationally renowned for its beauty and hospitality and some of our visitors have connections to the county, none more so than New York Governor Kathy Hochul (née Courtney), whose grandfather came from Cutteen in the Maherees on the Dingle Peninsula.

“We really look forward to welcoming all of our international guests to this stunning venue.”

Hilary O'Meara, Accenture's Country Managing Director in Ireland, said: “As a leading player on the world stage, Ireland has long had a strong appeal and reputation for innovation. This is demonstrated by the scale of this event and the quality of speakers, and I have no doubt that the World Economic Summit will have a significant impact on the critical global issues that affect us all.”

For detailed information on speakers and tickets, visit www.globaleconomicsummit.ie