London, Jan. 19.
At the close to-day of the talks between leading Ministers of Eire and Great Britain, begun en Monday, Mr. Eamon de Valera, the Prime Minister of Eire, sent the following message, through Reuter, to the Irish people abroad:
"I am hopeful that the present discussions will end in improving our relations with our neighbour.
"Throughout, we have emphasized that the ending of partition and the restoration of unity in Ireland are essential foundations for the establishment of a real understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries. The difficulties ahead of us are great, but our discussions have been conducted" in a frank and friendly atmosphere. We ask all people of goodwill to assist us in remi ig these difficulties."
Mr. de Valera looked well and cheerful, despite the heavy work entailed by the talks.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.