External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met Irish President Michael D. Higgins, marking the beginning of his visit to Ireland, where he is also set to hold bilateral talks with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris.

During the meeting on Thursday, EAM Jaishankar conveyed the warm regards of Indian President Droupadi Murmu and discussed the role of culture in strengthening national identity.

“Honoured to call on President Michael D. Higgins in Dublin this evening. Conveyed the warm regards of President Droupadi Murmu,” Jaishankar posted on X. “Value his insights on the contemporary world and its development debates. Spoke of the role of culture in strengthening nationhood,” he added.

This visit marks the second leg of Jaishankar’s tour, which began in London on March 5. From Ireland, he will return to the UK to inaugurate new consulates in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and Manchester, northern England, on March 8-9.

According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during his time in Ireland, Jaishankar will meet with Simon Harris, other dignitaries, and members of the Indian community.

India and Ireland share strong bilateral relations rooted in democratic values, cultural connections, and growing economic ties. Historical interactions date back to the 19th century when many Irishmen served in the British Civil Service, medical, engineering, and army sectors in India.

Ireland has supported India in various international matters, including counterterrorism. Following the Pulwama terrorist attack on February 14, 2019, in which 40 Indian security personnel lost their lives, then Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Simon Coveney strongly condemned the attack and pledged Ireland’s commitment to fighting terrorism.

Ireland also extended assistance to India during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing 1,248 oxygen concentrators, 425 ventilators, and two oxygen generators under the EU-ECHO mechanism.

The Indian Embassy has been actively encouraging Irish companies to participate in India’s flagship programs such as “Make in India,” “Digital India,” “Clean India,” and “Smart Cities,” fostering economic collaboration between the two nations.