EAM Jaishankar Meets with President Michael Higgins of Ireland, Highlights Cultural Importance in National Unity
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Synopsis
EAM S. Jaishankar met Irish President Michael D Higgins in Dublin, discussing cultural roles in nationhood. His visit marks ongoing diplomatic relations between India and Ireland, emphasizing shared values and mutual support.
Key Takeaways
- EAM Jaishankar's visit to Ireland highlights cultural diplomacy.
- Discussion with President Higgins on culture's role in nationhood.
- Strengthening India-Ireland bilateral relations.
- Support during COVID-19 from Ireland to India acknowledged.
- Continued collaboration against terrorism emphasized.
Dublin, March 7 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar, has met with Irish President Michael D Higgins, commencing his official visit to Ireland, during which he is set to engage in bilateral discussions with his Irish counterpart.
On Thursday, EAM Jaishankar conveyed the best wishes of President Droupadi Murmu to the Irish President, and the two leaders deliberated on the importance of culture in enhancing national identity.
While on a tour of the UK and Ireland this week, he shared on Thursday via X, "Honoured to meet President Michael D. Higgins in Dublin this evening. Conveyed the warm regards of President Droupadi Murmu."
He added, "I appreciate his perspectives on the contemporary world and its developmental discussions. We talked about culture's role in fortifying nationalism,” he noted.
This visit marks the second phase of EAM Jaishankar's trip that commenced in London on Tuesday.
In Dublin, he is also scheduled to engage in talks with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris.
After his time in Ireland, EAM Jaishankar will return to the UK to inaugurate new consulates in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and Manchester, northern England, over Friday and Saturday.
The EAM is on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland from March 4 to 9.
During his stay in Ireland on March 6-7, EAM Jaishankar is expected to meet his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, along with other dignitaries and members of the Indian community, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
India and Ireland enjoy amicable bilateral relations rooted in shared democratic principles, cultural connections, and escalating economic collaborations.
Interactions between India and Ireland trace back to the 19th century when many Irish nationals joined the British Civil Service, medical, engineering, and military roles, according to the MEA.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ireland provided support to India through the EU-ECHO mechanism, sending emergency medical supplies including 1248 oxygen concentrators, 425 ventilators, and 2 oxygen generators in two shipments.
Ireland has consistently backed India in its battle against terrorism.
Following the tragic Pulwama cross-border terrorist attack on February 14, 2019, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel, the then Irish Deputy PM and FM Simon Coveney issued a statement condemning the bombing and expressing concern over rising violence in the region, affirming that Ireland will continue to collaborate with India and the global community to fortify a comprehensive international response to combat terrorism.
According to the MEA, the Indian Embassy has been motivating Irish firms to participate in key flagship initiatives like "Make in India", "Digital India", "Clean India", and "Smart Cities".
