Her Excellency Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, led a high-level delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and several other government bodies on an official visit to Dublin, Ireland, from June 12 to 13.
The visit highlighted the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United Arab Emirates and Ireland, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Ireland in key sectors of mutual interest.
During the visit, Her Excellency expressed the UAE’s appreciation for its growing partnership with Ireland and the significant opportunities to enhance cooperation across various sectors. She noted that this visit reflects their shared commitment to promoting innovation and sustainable economic growth.
At the beginning of her visit, Al Hashemy held discussions with Neale Richmond, Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, focusing on strengthening collaboration in international development and multilateral coordination, highlighting the strategic alignment between the two nations in supporting global development priorities.
She also met with Helen McEntee, Minister for Education and Youth, where both parties shared a mutual interest in boosting cooperation in innovation, education, and scientific research, underscoring the depth of the UAE-Ireland relationship, which is experiencing increasing momentum. During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to establish the UAE-Ireland Business Council aimed at enhancing private sector cooperation and expanding economic ties.
The Memorandum was signed by Hamid Mohammed bin Salem, Secretary-General of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and Jenny Melia, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, in the presence of Peter Burke, Minister of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment, and Her Excellency Reem Al Hashemy. After the signing ceremony, Al Hashemy met with Burke to discuss the council’s objectives across various sectors, including facilitation of trade exchange and exploration of investment opportunities between the two sides.
During her visit, she also delivered a keynote address at University College Dublin, where she discussed the UAE’s strategic approach to artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive innovation ecosystems and international collaboration in accelerating sustainable and digital economic development.
Her Excellency Reem Al Hashemy concluded her visit by expressing gratitude to the Irish government for its sustained efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to fostering constructive dialogue and establishing long-term partnerships in all areas of shared priority.