When we talk about international relations, most often, state-level diplomacy makes the headlines. Trade agreements, visits of foreign dignitaries, and development cooperation steal the press spotlight.
Yet, the true essence of cross-cultural ties lies in people-to-people contact. One such example is the growing cultural exchange between Pakistan and the Republic of Ireland.
Despite geographical distance, the people of Pakistan and Ireland share a bond that has deepened over time, due to educational exchange, cultural collaborations, and mutual respect for one another.
Let’s discuss how the people of Pakistan and Ireland have turned closer to one another in a short span of time.
Educational and Academic Exchange
Educational exchange is, undoubtedly, the most significant factor in bringing the people of Pakistan and Ireland closer to one another. In recent years, Ireland has become one of the prime locations for Pakistani students pursuing higher education.
Academic institutes such as the University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, and the University of Limerick have seen a growing number of students from Pakistan, especially in the fields of medicine, information technology, business, and engineering.
Pakistani students studying in Irish colleges and universities not only acquire world-class education, but also contribute to Irish society through cultural exchange, academic excellence, and volunteering in social welfare programs, making people-to-people ties between the two countries stronger than ever.
Cultural Celebrations
Every year, Pakistani culture and tradition is celebrated by the Pakistani community residing in Ireland, which draws participation from the local Irish people as well.
Events such as Pakistan Independence Day celebrations, Iftar Dinners, and Pakistani Culture Night are widely celebrated in Ireland’s capital and other cities, attracting the local population, and bringing people together.
Last year, Ireland’s city of Waterford witnessed a successful Pakistan Independence Day celebration, bringing together a diverse group of participants, guests, and sponsors.
Pakistan’s rich culture and traditional cuisine were showcased during the event. The event was also attended by the First Officer of the Pakistan Embassy in Ireland, as well as the Mayor of Waterford City.
Similarly, the Irish-Pakistani community celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day in Cork. Pakistani flag was hoisted in the Cork City Hall, followed by celebrations in the council chambers organized by the Irish-Pakistani community in Cork.
Moreover, in April 2023, the Pakistani community in Dublin organized an Iftar dinner in Dublin, which was attended by not only the locals but also by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Ireland, Aisha Farooqui, Senator Gerry Horkan and Dublin 8 Fianna Fáil Councillors.
Furthermore, the Pakistani community in Ireland also actively participates in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations every year, showcasing their rich cultural history and wearing traditional Pakistani dresses.
They participated in the parade in Dublin, which is undoubtedly one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the world.
During the celebrations, the Irish-Pakistanis prepare traditional cuisines and invite their Irish neighbors to join in their celebrations, sharing their culture with others and forging new friendships along the way.
Additionally, Pakistani Culture Night is celebrated at the University of Galway (formerly known as National University of Ireland, Galway), which has become a highly anticipated event for not only the Pakistani community in Galway but also for the local population.
In 2022, Bailey Allen Hall of the University was adorned with green and white flags, setting the scene for a bustling night full of music, laughter, and Pakistani culture.
Stalls exhibited Pakistani cuisine and traditional jewelry. Artists and students alike performed at the event and displayed Pakistani fashion attires and sang the National Anthem of Pakistan.
Humanitarian Collaboration
The strong bond between the Irish and Pakistani people is not only witnessed during times of celebrations but also in times of crisis.
After the devastating floods in Pakistan in 2022, the Irish citizens mobilized quickly and joined hands with the Pakistani expats, raising funds and collecting supplies.
An Irish NGO, “Concern Worldwide” played a significant role in providing relief and humanitarian assistance to the victims of flood in Pakistan, in coordination with local partners.
Several Irish schools, universities, and churches also provided hefty donations, and the “Pakistan-Ireland Friendship Association” launched online campaigns, showcasing how solidarity between Ireland and Pakistan transcends beyond borders.
Educational Services of Irish Nuns in Pakistan
In a world that is divided by borders and varying beliefs, stories of silent servants often remind us of shared humanity.
One such example is the enduring legacy of Irish nuns, who have not only dedicated their lives to providing educational services to children in Pakistan but have also strengthened people-to-people ties between Ireland and Pakistan.
Sister Berchmans, who taught for nearly 65 years at Convents of Jesus and Mary in Lahore, Murree, and Karachi, has set an example of missionary spirit for others.
In recognition of her invaluable services, the Government of Pakistan awarded her with the prestigious civil award Sitara-i-Quaid-i-Azam in 2012.
Sports and Youth Exchange
Thanks to the efforts of the Pakistani community living in Ireland, Cricket, a beloved sport in Pakistan, is slowly gaining popularity in Ireland.
Informal cricket clubs in the cities of Dublin and Limerick have opened, bringing cricket lovers in both countries together. “Clondalkin Cricket Club” in 2021, gained significant recognition for its efforts in bringing the people of Ireland and Pakistan together, through sports.
Last year, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with Brian Mac Neice, Chairman of Cricket Ireland, in Dublin, where they focused on enhancing women’s cricket between the two countries, and organizing cross-country cricket matches in future.
Social Media and Digital Connectivity
In the age of globalization, modern technology, and easy internet access, people of Ireland and Pakistan frequently connect with one another. They share their unique culture, ideas, art, music, and personal experiences, thus contributing to cultural exchange between the two countries.
These social media influencers, food and travel vloggers, as well as the general public and diasporas residing in both countries help humanize each other’s experiences and build empathy across borders.
Read More: Pakistani Food Vlogger Mubashir Siddique’s Culinary Adventure in Kazakhstan
The people-to-people ties between Pakistan and Ireland tell us the story of a relationship that has crossed the boundaries of borders and regular state-level interactions.
It has become a story of friendship between people, who are geographically miles apart but are connected through shared values, and mutual respect for one another.
As the relationship between the people of these two countries deepens, with every student getting an education, every doctor saving a life, every meal shared, and every cricket match played, the bridge between these two cultures grows even stronger.
Javaria Khalid is a Web Contributor at The Diplomatic Insight Magazine. She specializes in covering geopolitical developments, international relations, diplomatic, and socio-economic developments in Europe and Pakistan.
