Thread by @tconnellyRTE

Some strong words on Brexit and the Irish border from the German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier last night at a state banquet in honour of the Irish President Michael D. Higins @PresidentIRL

1/ "The scars of the past [in Ireland] have not yet fully healed.

“On no account must the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union be allowed to reopen these old wounds.”

2/ “Politically and economically, Ireland is more directly affected by Brexit than any other EU member state.

3/ “For this reason, too, your country has our full solidarity. We have reiterated this pledge in recent months: Germany stands firmly by Ireland’s side.”

4/ “The European Union’s value and internal cohesion have rarely been so plain as during the withdrawal negotiations. Ireland is part of this Union. And Ireland’s core interests are will remain the EU’s core interests."

5/ “This applies particularly to the Northern Ireland peace process. We are aware of the great achievements there have been in building reconciliation since the Good Friday Agreement.

6/ “We want to strengthen you in your endeavours to find a solution for the border which will underpin, rather than undermine the peace process.”

7/ "Obviously this will involve the free movement of goods and persons. What it will not involve is barriers, customs duties and trade barriers. Here Ireland's concerns are also our concerns."

8/ “The Withdrawal Agreement negotiated with the United Kingdom protects the achievements of the Good Friday Agreement.

9/ “All EU member states have clearly stated that renegotiation is not an option. We just have to hope that the new government in London realises that too."

10/ These remarks were made last night, a transcript of which has just been issued