Dublin: Ireland and India have reached an agreement in principle to establish a Joint Economic Commission (JEC) following extensive discussions between Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris.
The Commission aims to deepen strategic cooperation, leveraging the long-standing relationship between the two nations. Last week, the Irish government approved an action plan to strengthen bilateral ties, which was a key focus of discussions between the two leaders. Following this, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a bilateral diplomatic exchange program was signed by Irish Ambassador to India Kevin Kelly and Indian Ambassador to Ireland Akhilesh Mishra. A final agreement on the JEC is expected later this year.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties
The action plan seeks to enhance governmental collaboration, foster networks between officials and departments, and set strategic priorities. As part of this initiative, the first JEC meeting will take place in Ireland in autumn 2025, followed by a similar event in India in 2026.
The JEC will serve as a bilateral forum for consultation on trade and investment, as well as discussions on global economic developments, including within the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The Commission will convene biennially, with hosting duties alternating between the two countries.
Addressing Global and Bilateral Challenges
Simon Harris highlighted that, in addition to economic cooperation, his discussions with Dr. Jaishankar covered a range of global issues, including Ireland’s role within the European Union, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Middle East and Indo-Pacific security concerns, and shared challenges such as climate change. Harris emphasised that by deepening collaboration, both nations can effectively address global and bilateral issues in a mutually beneficial manner.
The establishment of the Joint Economic Commission marks a significant step in expanding Ireland-India relations, paving the way for enhanced diplomatic and economic engagement in the years ahead.
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