In a significant meeting, India’s Ambassador to Ireland, Akhilesh Mishra, conveyed that the Irish leadership’s strong condemnation of attacks against Indian citizens has provided immense reassurance to the community. This discussion took place with John Lahart T.D., Chairman of Ireland’s Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The meeting was particularly timely, following an advisory issued by the Indian Embassy last month. This advisory had urged Indian nationals to exercise “reasonable precautions for their personal security” after a spate of racially motivated incidents.
Ambassador Mishra highlighted the impact of these condemnations, stating, “The powerful and categorical condemnations of incidents of attacks on Indians by President Higgins, Deputy Prime Minister Harris, Minister of Justice and Garda Commissioner have sent a much-needed message of reassurance to the community in Ireland as well as their families back in India.”
During their conversation, Mr. Lahart expressed his admiration for the Indian community in Ireland, including the many professionals residing in his own constituency. Ambassador Mishra extended his gratitude to Mr. Lahart for his unwavering support for both the Indian community and the broader India-Ireland relationship.
Mr. Lahart further emphasized his commitment to enhancing bilateral ties between India and Ireland. Ambassador Mishra also acknowledged the “overwhelming expression of solidarity” shown by the Irish government, political figures, the public, and state agencies in response to the recent “misdirected” attacks.
Additionally, Ambassador Mishra updated Mr. Lahart on the substantial growth in bilateral trade and the expanding, multi-faceted engagement between the two nations.
It’s worth noting that the Ireland India Council had previously postponed its annual “India Day” celebrations due to security concerns stemming from these attacks. Irish President Michael D. Higgins was among the prominent figures who publicly denounced these “despicable attacks” that targeted Indian workers and professionals residing in Ireland.