Ireland's relationship with Pakistan
Pakistan is an important partner for Ireland. Both countries emerged from a colonial past, with Ireland formally becoming a republic in 1949, and Pakistan in 1956. Today, Ireland and Pakistan enjoy growing business, diplomatic and education partnerships.
Diplomatic relations were established in 1962, with Pakistan opening an Embassy in Ireland in 2001 and Ireland opening an Embassy in 2024.
President Ayub Khan visited Ireland in 1964, and Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto visited in 1994. She was later awarded the Tipperary International Peace Award.
Culture and people-to-people links
Irish and Pakistani communities have long travelled between the two countries, making contributions to both societies.
Irish priests and nuns have a long history of contributing significantly to education, healthcare, and social work in Pakistan, with some of Pakistan’s leaders being educated by Irish teachers.
Bridie Wren, also known as Jennifer Musa, born in Ireland in 1917, became a member of Pakistan’s National Assembly in 1970, and is a signatory of Pakistan’s constitution.
Since the 1950s, many Pakistanis have made their home in Ireland, contributing extensively to Irish life, particularly in medical, technology and hospitality sectors.
Pakistan has an active diaspora in Ireland with a number of vibrant community and professional groups.
We are also bound by a love of sport, art and culture. Ireland and Pakistan regularly contest for honours in men’s and women’s international cricket and hockey. Top Irish cricket stars like Paul Stirling have also played in Pakistan’s Super League.
Peacekeeping
Irish and Pakistani UN peacekeepers first served together in Congo in 1960, and today personnel serve together in Cyprus.
The United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan has twice been led by an Irish officer.
Trade cooperation
Ireland’s economy is the fastest growing in the European Union, and is home to global leaders across an array of sectors.
Trade levels between Ireland and Pakistan are growing and two-way trade was €563 million in 2023, with services the strongest growth area. Key sectors include technology, textiles, pharmaceuticals, food processing and medical equipment.
Many of the most cherished Irish traditional musical instruments and sporting equipment are manufactured in Punjab province. Pakistan is a partner in the EU's GSP+ scheme, which allows duty-free access for some Pakistani exports to the EU.
Education
Ireland has world-class strengths in education, research and innovation and is an attractive destination for international students.
Educational partnerships between Pakistan and Ireland are growing and we expect to see further strengthening of these links in the coming years.