Foreign Affairs Committee to meet with resident Ambassadors to mark Africa Day and to discuss the relationship between Ireland and the various countries represented

The meeting will take place in Committee Room 2 of Leinster House between 15:15-18:15. 

The following representatives are due to appear:

• Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco H.E. Dr Lahcen Mahraoui
• Ambassador of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria H.E. Mr. Mohamed Belaoura
• Ambassador of Arab Republic of Egypt H.E. Mr. Mohamed Selim
• Ambassador of Embassy of the Republic of Kenya H.E. Ms. Tabu Irina
• Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the Republic of South Africa Ms Mabet van Rensburg
• Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the Republic of Sudan Mr. Mohammed Elbashir
• First Secretary, Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho, Mrs Mamoratehi Mary Bokopane

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Charlie Flanagan said: “We welcome the opportunity to meet for engagement with resident Ambassadors to the continent of Africa and discuss our strong and dynamic bilateral ties. Ireland now has 14 embassies across Africa, while total two-way trade between Ireland and Africa stands at a record high of almost €8 billion.”

“Africa Day takes place on Sunday May 25th and is an important moment to highlight the increased links between Ireland Africa. Africa Day commemorates the day in 1963 that 32 African countries signed the Charter of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which later evolved into the African Union (AU). The day of celebrations will be marked across Ireland on Sunday with events showcasing African music, dance, art and culture.”

‘Global Ireland: Ireland’s Strategy for Africa to 2025’ elaborates upon the commitments set out in the Global Ireland 2025 programme to expand Ireland’s engagement and diplomatic ties with Africa. There is plenty of potential to increase political and trade links over the coming years and we look forward to discussing these and other related matters with representatives.”

Watch the meeting live on www.oireachtas.ie or on the Oireachtas smartphone app for Apple and Android.