The Pakistan–Ireland Parliamentary Friendship Group convened by MNA Munaza Hassan met with Ambassador Mary O’Neill and Declan Johnston, Deputy Head of Mission, at Parliament House in Islamabad on Thursday, October 2, 2025, to strengthen Pakistan Ireland ties across parliamentary and sectoral lines.
In welcoming remarks the Convener recalled a recent constructive meeting in Islamabad and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and enhancing parliamentary cooperation. She noted that Ireland’s embassy opening in Pakistan in 2024 and the parliamentary study visit to Ireland in January 2025 provided important insights into Irish committee structures and legislative practices that can inform future exchanges.
The Convener proposed a virtual introductory meeting between the Pakistan–Ireland group and its counterpart in the Irish Parliament to begin regular group-to-group and committee-to-committee engagement. She emphasised cooperation on climate policy, youth and sports diplomacy, academic exchanges and stronger linkages between the Women’s Parliamentary Caucuses of both countries to promote gender-responsive legislation and leadership.
Highlighting opportunities beyond parliamentary dialogue, Munaza Hassan pointed to Ireland’s growing status as a European IT and technology hub and the potential for Pakistan Ireland collaboration in IT skills exchange, research, digital workforce development and emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and fintech.
The group expressed appreciation for Ireland’s decision to formally recognise the State of Palestine, a step valued by Pakistan and noted internationally. Members also underlined prospects for joint work on digital innovation, advanced agricultural practices, renewable energy, climate resilience and trade.
The meeting acknowledged the longstanding contributions of Irish educators, including the nuns of the Convent of Jesus and Mary and other missionaries, whose work has left a lasting legacy in Pakistan’s education and social sectors. Ambassador O’Neill highlighted the 2024 opening of Ireland’s 100th overseas mission in Islamabad as a sign of commitment to closer ties and praised the Pakistan–Ireland Parliamentary Friendship Group’s initiatives.
Ambassador O’Neill also commended the constructive role of the Pakistani diaspora in Ireland, noting contributions in education, healthcare and IT, and cited Mr. Ammar Ali, the first Pakistani-origin councillor in Dublin, whose upcoming role as Deputy Mayor illustrates growing community leadership. She affirmed her readiness to work with the PFG to expand people-to-people links and cooperation in sports, education, health and technology.
Both sides pledged to advance Pakistan Ireland relations through deeper engagement and broader collaboration. The meeting from Pakistan’s side included Members of the Pakistan–Ireland Parliamentary Friendship Group: Ms. Nuzhat Sadiq, Barrister Danyal Chaudhary, Ms. Zeb Jaffar, Ms. Seher Kamran, Ms. Huma Akhtar Chughtai, Mr. Naveed Aamir and Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro.
