The Tanaiste has described Microsoft founder Bill Gates as a "great friend of Ireland".

Eamon Gilmore met with the philanthropist at Government Buildings this morning.

The men discussed overseas aid, the European Union budget and the campaign to end polio.

Objectives of ending poverty & disease

The founder and philanthropist is visiting a number of European countries ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Mr. Gates also met with the Taoiseach before a meeting with President Michael D. Higgins at Aras an Uachtarain.

The agenda for meetings today also includes discussions on development aid priorities for the Irish term of EU President.

Speaking at a press conference following the one-hour meeting Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore said Bill Gates expressed his hope for a full economic recovery in Ireland.