Jaishankar Praises Indian Community’s Contributions During Ireland Visit
Dublin: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his admiration for the way Irish leaders honour the Indian community in Ireland. He noted that Irish leaders consistently acknowledge the contributions made by the Indian community, particularly in the health sector, during official meetings. Jaishankar emphasised that the remarkable impact of the Indian diaspora in Ireland is a source of immense pride.
He also highlighted the promising progress in the economic and trade agreement between India and the European Union, signalling further strengthening of bilateral cooperation.
During his two-day visit to Ireland, Jaishankar met with President Michael D. Higgins. The discussions focused on the role of culture in fostering nationalism. Jaishankar conveyed greetings from Indian President Droupadi Murmu to President Higgins and described the Irish leader’s insights on contemporary global developments as invaluable.
Jaishankar shared details of the meeting on social media, stating, “It was an honour to meet President Michael D. Higgins in Dublin. I conveyed President Droupadi Murmu’s greetings to him. We discussed the contemporary world and its developments, and his insights were truly invaluable.”
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The visit is part of ongoing efforts to bolster India-Ireland relations. Jaishankar is also scheduled to meet Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Simon Harris, along with other dignitaries and Indian community leaders.
India and Ireland share longstanding ties, with Ireland providing critical support to India during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ireland supplied 1,248 oxygen concentrators, 425 ventilators, and two oxygen generators in two consignments. Ireland has also been a steadfast supporter of India in its fight against terrorism, with then-Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney strongly condemning the 2019 Pulwama attack that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.
The Indian Embassy in Ireland has played a proactive role in promoting Irish participation in key Indian initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India, Clean India, and Smart Cities.
Meeting with Simon Harris
Today, Jaishankar is set to meet Foreign Minister Simon Harris, who also serves as Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral ties, India-EU relations, global challenges, and foreign policy priorities.
This marks the first high-level Indian visit to Ireland since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit in 2015. The discussions are expected to cover global issues such as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, the Middle East crisis, the Indo-Pacific region, climate change, and democratic values.
Higher Education Minister James Lawless is also set to visit India in the coming weeks, with planned visits to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai as part of the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Minister Harris welcomed Jaishankar’s visit, affirming Ireland’s commitment to strengthening ties with India and addressing shared global challenges.
Celebrating 75 Years of Bilateral Relations
India and Ireland recently celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations. This visit is expected to further enhance the historical and cultural ties between the two nations. The growing Indian community in Ireland is increasingly recognised for its contributions, especially in sectors such as healthcare and technology.
Bilateral trade between India and Ireland continues to grow significantly each year, with India acknowledged as a strategic partner of the European Union. The anticipated signing of the free trade agreement is expected to unlock greater trade and investment opportunities, benefiting both nations.
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