Minister Emer Higgins celebrates Saint Patrick's Day in Stockholm

Minister Higgins started the day at Ireland House in Stockholm, attending the 2026 Ireland Nordic Forum organised by the Irish Chamber of Commerce. The forum brought together representatives from a range of Irish businesses active in the Nordics.

The Minister’s remarks centered around the similarities and strengths of the Irish and Swedish economies, making them hubs for innovation and uniquely poised to meet the challenges of emerging sectors.

Next, Minister Higgins, together with H.E. Ambassador Barbara Jones and Deputy Head of Mission Conleth Brady attended lunch at the Riksdag (Swedish Parliament) hosted by the Swedish Irish Parliamentary Friendship Group. The Minister was welcomed by Vice-Chair of the Group Carl Nordblom and his colleagues representing a range of political parties in the Riksdag.

Discussions centered around the strengthening of Swedish and Irish parliamentary relations, Ireland's upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU and the safeguarding of rights of persons with disabilities in both countries.

In the afternoon, Minister Higgins travelled with Ambassador Barbara Jones to Karolinska University Hospital to visit the Paediatric ECMO ICU ward. There, they met with Dr Mikael Rolfs - Senior Physician and Lars Falk - Medical Director of the ECMO Ward.

Each year approximately 10 babies born in Ireland need ECMO treatment, a modified heart-lung machine which oxygenates blood outside of the body. Irish citizens avail of world-class treatment and incredibly comprehensive care and support from the ECMO team. Embassy Stockholm provides consular assistance to accompanying parents and family members while they are in Sweden.

In the evening, the Embassy of Ireland in Sweden hosted a Saint Patrick's Day concert at the Royal College of Music (Kungliga Musikhögskolan) in Stockholm. The celebration brought together close to 400 members and friends of the Irish community.

Guests were treated to Swedish folk music performed by students of the Royal College of Music followed by readings of Seamus Heaney's poetry by students of Stockholm International School. Back by popular demand, Irish band Moxie showcased their unique trad fusion sound.

Thank you to all who contributed to making possible this year's Irish National Day celebrations.