Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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132. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the cost to date of establishing the Embassy of Ireland in Islamabad; if these costs involved purchasing or leasing a new or existing building to accommodate the embassy; if the opening is still expected to take place in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17167/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Following Government approval on 7 September 2022, Ireland will open a resident Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan later this year.

The decision to open a mission in Pakistan is part of the Government’s Global Ireland strategy, which seeks a doubling of Ireland’s global footprint and influence, including through an expanded and strengthened diplomatic presence.

The Embassy will support the strategic objectives of Ireland’s renewed Asia-Pacific Strategy, by deepening our bilateral relations with Pakistan and reinforcing our understanding of regional dynamics.

The current cost to date of establishing the Embassy of Ireland in Islamabad is €143,516, of which €92,728 relates to rental costs for office space to accommodate the Embassy.

On 14 November last, the Government approved the nomination of Ms. Mary O’Neill as Ireland’s first resident Ambassador to Pakistan. It is envisaged that the Ambassador will commence her assignment later this year.

In the meantime, the Embassy of Ireland in Türkiye will remain accredited to Pakistan.