Ireland Shifts Focus to Strengthening Ties with India, Says Ambassador Kevin Kelly
New Delhi: Ireland is gradually shifting its focus away from China to forge deeper ties with India, according to Kevin Kelly, Ireland’s Ambassador to India. In a recent interview, Kelly revealed that both nations are set to establish a Joint Economic Commission to collaborate in key areas such as digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and agri-tech. Discussions regarding this partnership are ongoing with India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
This shift is part of Ireland’s renewed strategy for the Asia-Pacific region, which seeks to enhance engagement with India. Kelly emphasised the vast potential of an India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in fostering economic ties.
Evolving Relations with China
Historically, Ireland sought to deepen relations with China. However, Kelly clarified that Ireland now aims to strengthen its relationship with India instead. In this new era of diplomacy, Ireland is recalibrating its strategy to reduce reliance on China, increasing cooperation with India in areas such as international forums, education, and political relations. As a testament to this, a new consulate has been established in Mumbai, along with additional staff and two trade agencies, to boost foreign direct investment (FDI) and facilitate Irish businesses looking to invest in India.
Growth in Education and Trade
Ireland is also witnessing an increase in the number of Indian students choosing Irish universities, thanks to attractive visa policies that provide a two-year work permit post-study. Kelly noted that around 10,000 Indian students already study in Ireland each year, with this number expected to rise further.
Regarding bilateral trade, Kelly underscored the immense potential, citing an annual turnover of €10 billion between the two nations. With Brexit creating new opportunities, Ireland offers a strategic gateway for Indian businesses to access both the UK and the European Union’s common travel area, reaching a market of 550 million people. Ireland’s stable tax regime, which remains consistent regardless of government changes, makes it an attractive destination for Indian companies. Major firms such as Infosys, Wipro, and Biocon have already established a presence in Ireland.
EU-India Free Trade Agreement: A Promising Future
Kelly expressed optimism about the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), acknowledging that while negotiations may take time, the FTA holds significant promise for both economies. Drawing parallels with the lengthy EU-Canada FTA process, Kelly stressed that the potential benefits for trade and investment are substantial.
Celebrating Cultural Collaboration: Durga Puja and Ireland’s Celtic Heritage
In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Ireland, the Irish Embassy in New Delhi has initiated a cultural collaboration for the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata. This initiative marks a new chapter in India-Ireland relations as Irish and Indian artists unite to honour the Hindu goddess Durga and the Celtic goddess Danu.
Last year’s Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata left a lasting impression on Kelly, inspiring the collaboration between Ireland and the Kolkata-based group,’ Behala Nutan Dal’. Irish street art and theatre group Macnas also contributed, bringing to life the colossal figure of Danu, crafted from bamboo, steel, lights, water, and music, symbolising the unity of divine femininity between Indian and Irish traditions.
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