Inauguration of the Honorary Consulate of Ireland in Gothenburg

On 18 March, Ambassador Barbara Jones joined Honorary Consul Niclas Mårtensson for the formal opening of the Honorary Consulate of Ireland in Gothenburg.

At the event, Ambassador Jones spoke of the opening of the Consulate as a testament to the strength of Irish-Swedish relations, in this 80th year of bilateral diplomatic ties. She praised Gothenburg as a hub for industry and innovation in the Nordic region.

The Honorary Consul stated how honoured he is to take on this role and talked about his personal affinity for, and professional ties to, Ireland, having served as CEO of Stena Line since 2016.

Both remarked on the enduring relationship between Sweden’s second city and Ireland, noting the valuable contribution of the Irish community and business in the region.

The Honorary Consulate is housed in Stena Line's headquarters, overlooking the harbour of Gothenburg and ferries serving ports across Northern Europe.

The event, held in Stena Line's Danmarksterminalen, brought together members of the Irish community living in Southern and Western Sweden, representatives of local businesses, research institutions and civil society organisations. Gothenburg's consular corps were delighted to welcome Mr. Mårtensson into the fold.

Mr. Mårtensson was appointed by the Government of Ireland in February 2025 and is the third Honorary Consul of Ireland in Gothenburg.

The first Honorary Consul, Mr. Gomer T. Brunius, appointed in the late 1940's, held the position for over 30 years. Mr. Brunius led a successful paper processing and export company, with strong links to Ireland. He was succeeded by his son, Mr. Carl Gomer Brunius, who served as Honorary Consul until 2007.