Why in News
St. Patrick’s Day 2024 in India is especially important.
This year we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and India.
We remember the proud history of Ireland’s partnership with India in the struggle we both went through for freedom from colonial oppression.
We remember the conversations, exchanges and meetings that took place between our founding fathers and mothers as both countries charted a path towards independence and the creation of proud and modern republics.
And, we celebrate the links that have only grown since then, in trade, education and in people-to-people connections.
India – Ireland Relation
India and Ireland have a friendly relationship with historical connections dating back to the 19th century.
Here's a breakdown of their relations:
Historical Ties:
Shared Colonial Experience: Both India and Ireland were under British rule, fostering a sense of solidarity in their independence struggles.
Nationalist Movements: Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Eamon de Valera drew inspiration from each other's movements.
Cultural Exchange: Literary figures like Rabindranath Tagore and W. B. Yeats influenced each other's work.
Irish Missionaries: Irish missionaries played a significant role in Indian education.
Formal Relations:
Established diplomatic ties in 1947 after India's independence.
Regular exchange of visits by government officials.
Embassies in each other's capitals (Delhi and Dublin) and Honorary Consulates in major cities.
Economic Cooperation:
Growing trade relationship, with India exporting textiles, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods to Ireland, and Ireland exporting technology and equipment to India.
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