H.E. Mariam Madiha Aftab, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Ireland, presents her Credentials to H.E Catherine Connolly, President of Ireland

H.E. Mariam Madiha Aftab, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Ireland, presents her Credentials to H.E Catherine Connolly, President of Ireland

In a ceremony at the Áras an Uachtaráin (Presidency) today, H.E. Mariam Madiha Aftab presented her Letter of Credence to H.E. Catherine Connolly, President of Ireland, appointing her as Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Mr. Robert Troy T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for Financial Institutions, Credit Unions and Insurance represented the Government of Ireland at the ceremony. Secretary General to the President, Ms Orla Hanrahan and officials of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also attended the Ceremony.

After presenting her credentials, the Ambassador called on the President and discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest. She also conveyed to the President, greetings from President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. President Connolly said that Ireland attached great importance to its relations with Pakistan and wished progress and prosperity for the people of Pakistan. President Connolly also lauded the contribution of Pakistani community in Ireland particularly in the healthcare sector.

Outlining the emphasis of the Government of Pakistan on human development and economic growth, the Ambassador informed the President that her focus would be on expanding trade and commercial ties between the two countries, as well as deepening linkages in the health and education sectors. She also emphasized the important role played by the Pakistani diaspora in Ireland in further strengthening bilateral relations.