We are delighted to launch Africa Day 2024.

Minister Seán Fleming announced details of the nationwide programme, which opens with an event on 19 May on the grounds of IMMA at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham.

To see what's on near you 👉ireland.ie/en/africa-day/

Ireland’s six Ambassadors in Southeast Asia are in Bangkok this week to discuss our growing engagement with this dynamic region. You can find out more about our work and Ireland’s presence in SE Asia by visiting ireland.ie

This is #GlobalIreland 🌏🇮🇪

Moved by the stories I heard from patients and staff at the Al Arish hospital today - the closest hospital to the Rafah Crossing.

Many patients being treated here are Palestinians - including young children - injured in the strikes on Gaza.

At the الهلال الأحمر المصري hub in Al Arish, I witnessed the barriers to aid getting into Gaza

All the trucks lined up, all the refused aid, hospital equipment not being allowed over the border - there is no logical reason

It’s clear people of Gaza are being collectively punished

At the Rafah Crossing, I met UNRWA and UN Humanitarian reps working on the frontline in Gaza.

It is clear that the situation on the ground continues to be dire. This is inhumanity on a grand scale.

Despite this, Israel continues to restrict the flow of aid.

Productive & substantive meeting w/ Egyptian FM Sameh Shoukry ahead of my visit to the Rafah Crossing

Discussion on the dire situation in Gaza, the Arab peace plan & recognition of a Palestinian state

I thanked him for 🇪🇬’s help in the exit of over 90 🇮🇪 citizens from Gaza

Disappointed & concerned at Georgia’s reintroduction of the draft “Transparency on Foreign Influence” law, which would have a chilling effect on civil society and is not in line w/core EU values & norms. We urge Georgia to return to its EU integration path
eeas.europa.eu/eeas/georgia-s…

Tá an Roinn Gnóthaí Eachtracha ag earcú le haghaidh Sainchomhairleoir Forbartha.

Tá tuilleadh eolais faoi na roil agus an próiseas iarratais ar fáil anseo 👉 gov.ie/en/organisatio…

Is é an 1 Bealtaine 2024 ag meán lae an spriocdháta d'iarratais.

Wishing a happy Passover to all those celebrating.

REMINDER!

The deadline for applications is next Monday, 29 April 2024.

Apply now 👉 gov.ie/en/organisatio…

Important agenda at today’s FAC meeting with discussions on Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan.

Three major conflicts leading to thousands dead, famine & massive displacement of people.

This week, I will travel Jordan & Egypt, including to the Rafah border crossing.

Disappointed at outcome of UN Security Council vote on Palestinian UN membership.

It is past time for Palestine to take its rightful place amongst the nations of the world. 🇮🇪 fully supports UN membership and will vote in favour of any UNGA resolution to that end.

Met Secretary of State ⁦Chris Heaton-Harris MP⁩
In Dublin this evening.

Useful conversation on developments in NI following restoration of the Executive and institutions.

Delighted to speak with new Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething.

Wales is a close neighbour and an important partner.

I look forward to strengthening further our collaboration, and hosting the First Minister later this year at the next Ireland-Wales Forum.

We will be hosting a FREE WEBINAR next Thursday 18 April 2024 from 10.00-11.00 titled “Update on the UK’s New SPS Import Requirements”. The webinar will cover the changes to the UK’s import controls since 31st January.

Register: register.gotowebinar.com/register/88150…

Minister Michael McGrath travels to Washington D.C. today for the Spring Meetings of the IMF & World Bank, having secured Government approval at Cabinet to provide €800 million in financing for international climate action & pandemic preparedness.

Read more: gov.ie/en/press-relea…

Great to welcome all of our partners to Dublin Castle today for the first Reconciliation Fund Networking Forum since 2022. 🤝

Attendees from across these islands have been taking part in a number of round table discussions on peace and reconciliation in the 21st century. 🕊️

The Department of Foreign Affairs is seeking applications for the position of Development Specialist Counsellor in the Development Cooperation and Africa Division.

The closing date for applications is 12pm Irish time, 1 May 2024.

Find out more 👉 gov.ie/en/organisatio…