During the embassy's opening ceremony in Dublin, Ireland on the afternoon of 26/3, Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang emphasized that this marks a significant milestone as both countries celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations, opening a new chapter in bilateral ties, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The event affirms a commitment to promoting comprehensive cooperation between the two nations, spanning politics, trade, education, science and technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, Hang stated.

Representatives from Vietnam and Ireland cut the ribbon at the Vietnamese embassy's opening in Dublin on 26/3. Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The establishment of the embassy also demonstrates the Party and the State's interest in the Vietnamese community in Ireland. It fulfills commitments made during General Secretary and President To Lam's state visit in 10/2024.

During that visit, both sides issued a Joint Statement on promoting Vietnam-Ireland cooperation. This statement outlined directions for collaboration in political-diplomatic, security, education and training, trade, investment, development cooperation, and other potential areas. Key focus areas include education, agriculture, socio-economic development in remote areas, and addressing the consequences of bombs and mines.

At the embassy's opening ceremony, Irish Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond, expressed delight at the strong development of bilateral relations. He emphasized that the embassy's inauguration is a clear testament to the increasingly close relationship following General Secretary To Lam's visit, as well as a shared commitment to fostering cooperation across various sectors.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Ireland Pham Toan Thang stated that the embassy will expand diplomatic activities, support business and educational connections, and more effectively serve the Vietnamese community.

Ireland is currently Vietnam's 6th largest trading partner in the European Union market. Total two-way trade turnover reached 3.5 billion USD in 2024. Both sides aim to increase bilateral trade to 5 billion USD by 2026.

Ireland currently has 41 investment projects in Vietnam, with a total registered capital of over 44 million USD, ranking 61st out of 141 countries and territories investing in Vietnam.

Ireland considers Vietnam a priority partner in its development cooperation policy, focusing on: education, gender equality, climate change response, and support for ethnic minorities. It continues to provide non-refundable Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Vietnam for poverty reduction, education and training, support for people with disabilities, and mine clearance.

Hong Hanh