External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar concluded a successful visit to Ireland and Northern Ireland, reinforcing diplomatic, economic, and educational ties.
Key Highlights of Jaishankar’s Visit:
India-Ireland Cooperation: Joint Economic Commission Announced
Jaishankar met with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris in Dublin, where both leaders agreed to:
✅ Establish a Joint Economic Commission to boost trade, investment, and technology ties.
✅ Implement a new Action Plan to reinvigorate India-Ireland relations.
✅ Discuss global issues, including the Ukraine conflict, Indo-Pacific, and India-EU cooperation.
Jaishankar also paid tribute to Rabindranath Tagore at St Stephen’s Green Park in Dublin, recognizing his historical and cultural contributions.
Strengthening India-Northern Ireland Relations
During his visit to Belfast, Jaishankar:
✅ Inaugurated the Indian Consulate, which will support the Indian community and promote trade, technology, and education collaboration.
✅ Met Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Junior Minister Aisling Reilly, discussing opportunities in skills, cybersecurity, tech, creative industries, and manufacturing.
Educational Ties: Queen’s University Expanding to India
Jaishankar visited Queen’s University Belfast, which is set to establish a campus in GIFT City, Gujarat—a significant step in India-UK educational cooperation. He also interacted with Indian students studying at the university.
Strategic Significance of the Visit
Jaishankar’s engagements underscore India’s commitment to deepening ties with Ireland, Northern Ireland, and the broader UK-EU region, expanding cooperation in economy, technology, education, and diplomacy.