The achievements of the Irish diaspora, renowned worldwide for its best practices and innovative approaches, make Ireland a role model in international relations and diaspora activities, while creating valuable opportunities for experience-sharing with institutions in other countries. In this context, the visit of Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, to the Republic of Ireland and his meetings with a number of officials hold special significance in terms of reinforcing inter-state cooperation and further developing diaspora activities.

During a meeting with Karl Gardner, Director of the Irish Abroad Unit at Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, the parties discussed the history of friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Ireland, with particular attention given to the role of diaspora communities in further advancing these ties.

Expressing his sincere gratitude for the warm hospitality, the Committee Chairman emphasized that the diaspora policy pursued under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, while strengthening the solidarity of Azerbaijanis worldwide, has also made invaluable contributions to enhancing the international standing of modern Azerbaijan. He noted that Azerbaijanis living abroad, including our compatriots in Ireland, play an important role in promoting the country’s image and culture. He added that the State Committee’s large-scale projects aimed at the new generation of Azerbaijanis are designed to increase Azerbaijan’s global influence and prestige, while helping to build a stronger community capable of representing the country internationally in the future.

Having received extensive information about the multifaceted activities of the Azerbaijani diaspora, Karl Gardner particularly emphasized the importance of learning from the experience of Azerbaijani Houses abroad and their weekend Azerbaijani schools.

Both sides voiced confidence that their discussions would yield meaningful outcomes for the future development of diasporas of the two countries.

Later, the Chairman met with a delegation led by Tony McCormack, head of the Ireland–Azerbaijan Interparliamentary Friendship Group. The meeting focused on opportunities for joint projects and the importance of strengthening strategic collaboration in diaspora affairs.

The participants discussed the successful work carried out with Azerbaijani diaspora organizations operating in more than 70 countries around the world to preserve the national and cultural identity of Azerbaijanis living abroad, unite them on a common platform, and convey the truth about Azerbaijan to the international community. It was noted that the activities of the Azerbaijani community in Ireland and the strong ties established with Irish friends of Azerbaijan remain a constant focus of attention.

McCormack emphasized that bilateral meetings would further expand cooperation and noted the crucial role of diaspora in this process. Recalling his April visit to Azerbaijan, he talked about the deep impression left by his trips to Victory Park, Shusha, and Khankandi.

Terry Leyden, Azerbaijan’s Honorary Consul in Ireland, expressed his deep affection for Azerbaijan and praised its remarkable achievements since independence. Members of the Irish Parliament reaffirmed their friendship toward Azerbaijan and stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation even further.