Darren O'Rourke
Question:56. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on Irish-United Arab Emirates relations. [38848/23]
View answerMonday, 11 September 2023
Questions (56)
Written answers
Ireland and the United Arab Emirates enjoy positive diplomatic relations. In the very recent past we have worked well together as elected members of the UN Security Council. The UAE's role in its region is important and we value their insights on regional developments. As relations between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council develop, our engagement with the UAE on a wide range of issues will also increase.
Bilateral trade, currently worth around €750 million, continues to grow. Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, the IDA and Tourism Ireland are all represented in the UAE, from which other countries in the region are covered. More than 400 Irish enterprises have identified the UAE as a potential export market. The UAE is also an important source of investment n the Irish economy.
The UAE is home to a very large Irish migrant community which is engaged in all economic sectors, particularly education, and which makes a strong contribution to the business and social fabric of the country.
Engagement with the United Arab Emirates also includes a regular pattern of ministerial visits.
In January of this year, Minister of State Dara Calleary led the participation of Irish companies in the Arab Health expo in Dubai and had meetings with Minister of the Future Al Roumi, and Minister of Economy Al Marri. In March, Minister of State Josepha Madigan travelled to the UAE for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. The Garda Commissioner visited the UAE recently and Ireland will include bilateral engagements in the course of participation at COP 28 in December this year. We also expect to host a number of incoming visits from the UAE through to the end of 2023.
Question No. 57 answered with Question No. 15.