New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation with Ireland’s Foreign Minister Helen McEntee, during which the two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties, with a particular focus on trade, education and multilateral cooperation. The conversation coincided with Ireland assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Jaishankar congratulated McEntee on Ireland taking over the EU Council presidency and conveyed India’s best wishes for a successful tenure. He said both countries would continue working together to deepen their partnership across key sectors.
In a post on social media following the call, Jaishankar said the two ministers discussed expanding cooperation in trade and education, while also reaffirming their commitment to working closely in the multilateral domain.
The conversation builds on the growing momentum in India-Ireland relations over the past year. During Jaishankar’s official visit to Ireland in March 2025, both sides reviewed cooperation in trade, education, mobility, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, laying the groundwork for closer engagement.
Ireland’s assumption of the EU Council presidency is expected to provide fresh opportunities for advancing India-European Union relations, including negotiations on a proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement, cooperation in digital technologies, climate action and resilient supply chains.
Officials from both countries have also been working to strengthen collaboration in healthcare, innovation, higher education and skilled workforce mobility, reflecting the growing strategic importance of the bilateral relationship.
The latest interaction underscores the commitment of New Delhi and Dublin to deepen their partnership and enhance cooperation on regional and global issues through regular diplomatic engagement.
