The Taoiseach and Finance Minister are among Irish delegates going to Davos, Switzerland for this year's World Economic Forum (WEF).
This will be the third visit to the Forum by Enda Kenny, and first since Ireland successfully exited the bailout programme. The Taoiseach will focus on the promotion of Ireland as a international business and investment destination.
He will meet individually with leaders of several major multinational firms and participate in a number of Forum events - one of which will include the EU Commission President, Jose-Manuel Barroso as well as the Swedish Prime Minister, Italy's Finance Minister and the President and CEO of Siemens.
On Thursday evening, the Taoiseach and Minister Michael Noonan will participate in an IDA-hosted event for senior executives of major international firms.
Speaking in advance of the 44th annual Forum, Minister Noonan said "Ireland has exited the EU-IMF programme, made a full return to the financial markets and is open for business and investment".
"We must take full advantage of every opportunity to drive investment to Ireland. Davos is a great opportunity and platform to promote Ireland as a world-class destination for investment" he added.
Both Enda Kenny and singer Bono are scheduled to address the gathering, which includes more than 2,500 participants - and over 30 heads of State or government.
Pope Francis called for better distribution of wealth
Meanwhile Pope Francis has sent his own message to participants, and has called on business and political leaders to use determination and far-sightedness in their efforts to promote inclusiveness and rid the world of social exclusion.
In the message read by Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, the Pope emphasized the responsibility of political and economic leaders towards the vulnerable - and called on leaders to use their expertise to improve the lives of those still living in poverty.
"The growth of equality…calls for decisions, mechanisms and processes directed to a better distribution of wealth, the creation of sources of employment and an integral promotion of the poor, which goes beyond a simple welfare mentality" he said.
The meeting is taking place from 22nd to 25th of January under the theme "The Reshaping of the World: Consequences for Society, Politics and Business".
Executive Chairman of the WEF Klaus Schwab has this message for delegates.
