Zambia, Ireland Forge Closer Ties in Dublin Talks
Zambia and Ireland have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties following the Third Political Consultations held in Dublin last Friday. The talks are part of the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding on the Renewal of the Political Consultation Forum.
The consultations provided both nations with a platform to exchange views on shared priorities, including development cooperation, governance, trade and investment, as well as regional and international affairs. Cultural linkages and diaspora engagement also featured prominently in the discussions.
Speaking after the meeting, Zambia’s delegation, led by Ms Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, underscored the importance of building on existing areas of collaboration. She was joined by Zambia’s Ambassador to Ireland, Her Excellency Ms Macenje F. Mazoka, alongside senior officials and diplomats.
The Irish delegation was headed by Mr Michael Gaffey, Director General of the Development Cooperation and Africa Division at Irish Aid. He was accompanied by Ambassador Bronagh Carr, Ambassador-designate Aidan Fitzpatrick, and Ms Susan Conlon, Desk Director for the Development Cooperation and Africa Division.
Both sides emphasised the need to expand cooperation in agriculture, food security, energy, culture, and education, while also reiterating their shared commitment to working together in multilateral fora.
Relations between Zambia and Ireland remain robust, supported by longstanding collaboration in education, governance, and social protection. Initiatives such as the Ireland Africa Fellows Programme continue to strengthen people-to-people connections and educational exchanges.
The consultations concluded on a positive note, with both delegations expressing optimism for the future and pledging to deepen partnerships across a range of sectors.
