External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar inaugurated the new Consulate General of India in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Friday, marking a significant step in enhancing India’s diplomatic presence and catering to a growing diaspora.
During the inauguration, Jaishankar emphasized the strategic importance of Belfast as a meeting point for India’s policy engagement with both the United Kingdom and the European Union. He expressed optimism about concluding a free trade agreement with the UK and the EU soon, highlighting Belfast’s privileged access to both regions.
In his address, Jaishankar thanked the dignitaries present and noted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s commitment to foreign policy and diaspora welfare. “One reflection of that was identifying where we needed new consulates to cater to the needs of a growing diaspora. That was a broad global objective,” he stated.
Jaishankar underscored the deepening relationship between India and the UK, pointing to key sectors like the economy, technology, and people-to-people exchanges. He noted the increasing Indian community in the region and the importance of establishing a consulate to support their needs.
“When we looked at the history of Belfast and this region, it made eminent sense to take this call,” Jaishankar explained. He revealed that within a month and a half of the Modi government’s re-election in 2024, the proposal for the consulate was moved in the cabinet.
Highlighting Belfast’s rich economic history, particularly in the shipbuilding industry and the presence of Indian IT companies and businesses, Jaishankar expressed confidence in the consulate’s potential to foster economic and cultural ties.
“We see this consulate not only as a platform for pursuing our engagements with the UK and Europe but also very much in support of this region’s aspirations and, most importantly, in the service of our community,” he concluded.
Jaishankar’s visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland runs from March 4 to March 9, underscoring the importance India places on strengthening bilateral and regional partnerships.
