External Affairs Minister emphasizes peaceful conflict resolution during lecture at University College Dublin
India strongly believes that global conflicts should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than warfare, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted during his speech at University College Dublin in Ireland on Thursday.
Addressing an audience comprising students, academics, and members of the Indian diaspora, Jaishankar shared India’s perspective on the importance of peaceful negotiation in a world increasingly dominated by conflicts.
Shared Commitment to Counterterrorism
Referencing the tragic 1985 Air India Kanishka aircraft bombing off the Irish coast, Jaishankar underscored the mutual commitment of India and Ireland to combat terrorism. The village of Ahakista in West Cork maintains a commemorative plaque honoring the 329 victims of the bombing, symbolizing the enduring solidarity between both nations in the fight against terrorism.
“Talking about conflict, perhaps a word on countering terrorism would also be appropriate, particularly as a foreign minister of a country which has long been at the receiving end of terrorist efforts,” Jaishankar said, highlighting the significance of international cooperation to address this persistent global challenge.
India-EU Free Trade Agreement Progressing
On the economic front, Jaishankar expressed cautious optimism regarding the longstanding negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union (EU). These negotiations have been ongoing for nearly 23 years.
Jaishankar noted the recent visit of the EU President and 21 EU commissioners to India, emphasizing that these talks have sparked renewed hopes of concluding the agreement by the end of the year.
Robust India-Ireland Bilateral Relations
Jaishankar praised the strong economic and educational ties between India and Ireland, highlighting that bilateral trade currently stands at approximately 16 billion Euros, dominated by services rather than goods.
“Education has been a really promising area of exchanges," Jaishankar noted. He pointed out that nearly 13,000 Indian students currently enrolled at Irish universities are significantly contributing to Ireland’s national development.
The External Affairs Minister also mentioned historic links between the two countries, recalling former Indian President V V Giri’s studies at University College Dublin from 1913 to 1916.
Celebrating Cultural Connections and Diaspora Contributions
During his visit, Jaishankar underscored the importance of nurturing cultural ties between India and Ireland. “As the world transitions into a different phase, it’s important for all of us to nurture our cultural attributes, to understand their full value, and to factor it in as we develop our own identity," he remarked.
Following the lecture, Jaishankar engaged with members of the Indian diaspora at an event organized by the Indian Embassy in Dublin, applauding their significant achievements and contributions to Irish society.
Strengthening Historical Ties with Ireland
Jaishankar’s visit to Ireland began with a tour of the General Post Office Museum in Dublin, a symbol of the 1916 Easter Rising, which he described as holding "a special meaning for so many who fought for freedom from colonialism."
He also visited historic landmarks such as Trinity College Dublin and held high-level meetings with Irish President Michael D Higgins and former Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who is of Indian heritage. His engagements included discussions with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris before departing for Belfast in Northern Ireland.
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