Irish envoy Kevin Kelly sees stronger India ties under new Asia-Pacific strategy

Ireland’s ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, emphasised on the strong ties his country has with India, and plans to build on them in a year both countries celebrate the 75th year of establishment of diplomatic ties.

In an interview with WION, Irish Ambassador to India, Kelly, highlighted growing ties, noting, “We have a great relationship with India. We have a proud history of the anti-colonial struggle. The Great Indian Constitution actually borrows from the Irish constitution. We have a long history of engagement.”

One of the initiatives that will be taken this year, will be Irish collaboration when it comes to Durga Puja. The Ambassador said, “The Durga Puja festival blew my mind. It’s the biggest public art festival.” He added that in a first, a joint Irish-India Durga Pandal can be seen in Kolkata from October 1st, which will celebrate “the mystic feminine power.”

With over 100,000 Indians living in Ireland, making up 2 per cent of the population, the Indian community plays an essential role in Irish society. The Ambassador acknowledged their contribution: “They play a positive role. After graduation, they have a two-year work permit.” He further praised the Indian diaspora, saying, “We are proud of the engagement of the Indian diaspora.”

Ireland’s commitment to strengthening ties with India is part of a broader strategy. “We have a new Asia Pacific strategy,” the Ambassador shared. “As part of the strategy, pay attention to growing ties with India. We have proposed a joint economic commission. We have invited the Indian President to visit Ireland. A lot more we can do, in terms of trade, political links.” 

The Ambassador also emphasized Ireland’s admiration for India’s electoral system, calling the Indian elections “a true education” and noting, “A population of a billion went through a peaceful election.” Ireland, he said, hopes to learn from the Indian Election Commission.

Turning to global affairs, the Ambassador addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. “We are one of the highest recipients of Ukraine refugees. We opened our doors,” he said.

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Ireland strongly condemns the “Russian invasion”, asserting, “Ireland condemns this war, [it is an] act of Russia. Our leadership has visited Kyiv. The Russian invasion needs to stop. Ukraine needs to be returned to safety and security.”

On UNSC reforms, the Ambassador said, “We understand India’s desire to be at UNSC. We have been strong supporters of UNSC reforms. Ireland is not in favour of the veto. Africa should have a bigger role. UNSC requires reforms.”

In addition, the Ambassador mentioned Ireland’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, affirming, “Ireland has always been a strong supporter of the Palestine cause. It’s not an anti-Israeli position. We don’t see any solution to the conflict, with [anything but] a two-state solution.”