The Embassy of Ireland marked a historic occasion by hosting the very first celebration of St. Patrick’s Day and Ireland’s Independence Day in Pakistan. Ambassador Mary O’Neil welcomed guests to an evening of culture, gratitude, and growing friendship between the people of Ireland and Pakistan.
In her address, Ambassador O’Neil highlighted the Irish diaspora’s deep-rooted tradition of bringing their culture and celebrations to every corner of the world. “Wherever Irish people have gone, we’ve brought our celebrations with us. It is a joy to share the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with our hosts and friends in Pakistan,” she said.
Expressing heartfelt appreciation for the hospitality shown by the people of Pakistan, the Ambassador remarked, “Ireland may be known as the land of a hundred thousand welcomes, but I must say that Pakistan is putting up serious competition for this title. Shukriya — or as we say in Gaelic, Go raibh míle maith agaibh.”
Ambassador O’Neil congratulated the Pakistan women’s cricket team on their recent win against Ireland in the World Cup Qualifiers, calling it a fantastic match and expressing hope for more exciting encounters in the future.
Emphasizing the cultural connection between both nations, she noted, “In Pakistan, as in Ireland, music lies at the heart of our celebrations.” She praised the stirring performance of the Irish national anthem by Areeb Azhar, and thanked Marie and Executive Chair David Heidon for contributing to the evening’s success, including a specially curated Pakistani feast.
Reflecting on the Embassy’s establishment last summer, Ambassador O’Neil acknowledged the long-standing ties between the two countries. “Though our Embassy is new, the bonds of friendship are much older. Many Irish educators have contributed to Pakistan’s development since its independence, and some of them are here with us tonight,” she said.
She also recognized the significant Pakistani community in Ireland, particularly those who arrived in the 1970s. “We are indebted to the medical professionals who were pioneers of this community and continue to provide exceptional life-saving care in Ireland,” she noted.
In closing, the Ambassador extended her appreciation to the Honorary Consul of Ireland in Karachi for his valuable contributions to fostering Ireland–Pakistan relations.
Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and jointly cut the commemorative cake with the Irish Ambassador.
In her speech, she congratulated Ambassador Mary O’Neil on St. Patrick’s Day and, on behalf of the Prime Minister and the people of Pakistan, extended best wishes to the leadership and people of Ireland.
She also warmly welcomed Ambassador O’Neil to Pakistan as the first resident Ambassador of Ireland, expressing that Pakistan values its relations with Ireland and looks forward to enhancing bilateral ties in various sectors, including trade, tourism, health, education, and beyond.
The event marked a new chapter in the diplomatic and cultural relationship between Ireland and Pakistan, celebrating shared values, people-to-people ties, and a commitment to future collaboration.
