Local Fianna Fáil Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Deputy Robert Troy, has departed for New Delhi and Mumbai, India as part of this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Ministerial missions, the first official visit to the country since 2019.
“St Patrick’s Day this year comes at an important juncture in global affairs. As we emerge from the pandemic and look hopefully to the future, we must also recognise the events of the past weeks and what it means for us and the global community.
“While the pandemic impacted people in many different ways, there was a renewed sense of community in how we responded to the challenges it posed, and it is this sense of community and collaboration which I want to carry forward in my visit to India together with our continued solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
“This year marks 75 years of independence for India. A period in which India has assumed the status of a regional and global leader in many fields. I am pleased to be afforded the opportunity to congratulate the Indian people in person as part of my visit on this important milestone and to engage with them on deepening our already good relationship,” Deputy Troy remarked.
As part of the St Patrick’s Day programme of events, Minister Troy will meet his counterparts in the Indian Government, including the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Anupriya Patel, with a particular focus on strengthening trade relations.
He will meet with key business leaders and education institutions to support the growing economic and educational links between Ireland and India, and explore opportunities for further collaboration. He will also launch the Indian branch of the Ireland-India Business Association and open Ireland House in Mumbai, both marking a significant new chapter in Ireland’s economic relationship with India.
Deputy Troy noted the significance such positive developments represent to Irish-Indian relations.
“India is a very important partner for Ireland. Trade has almost tripled over the last ten years with over €5.5bn in trade between our two countries. There are real opportunities to further strengthen our relations between our countries and supporting the partnerships and links that connect us will enable us to fully embrace the opportunities this vibrant market presents.
“A free trade agreement between the EU and India would promote the diversification of our exports – a key priority for us not least because of the challenges that Brexit has brought. It is therefore very welcome that the EU and India agreed last May to relaunch trade and investment negotiations and I hope these will resume shortly,” Deputy Troy concluded.
