BNDigital

 

The warm diplomatic relations between Ireland and Brazil have grown from strength to strength since their establishment in 1975, though this exhibition shows the extent to which the deep connections between our two countries go back centuries!

Diplomatic relations were established in 1975, with the Embassy of Brazil in Dublin established in 1991, followed by the Embassy of Ireland in Brasília in 2001 and the Consulate General of Ireland in São Paulo, in 2015. Since diplomatic relations were established, the relationship between both countries has been friendly and productive, and has grown into new areas of cooperation. In 2022, Ireland launched its first ever Strategy for the Latin America and Caribbean Region, of which relations with Brazil forms a crucial part.

Regular political engagement occurs between Ireland and Brazil at high level, including through three Presidential visits from Ireland to Brazil. Brazil has also received visits from many Irish Government Ministers, including those responsible for Trade, Education and Science, as well as the Ceann Comhairle (Speaker of the House) in 2019.

Ireland has also been pleased to provide bilateral support to the Government of Brazil, notably through the provision of medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic, and assistance in the protection of the Amazon rainforest.

Our diplomatic relations have also facilitated partnerships in other sectors: Brazil is Ireland’s second-largest trade partner in Latin America and many Irish companies are expanding their operations here, with support from Enterprise Ireland’s Office in Sao Paulo. Thousands of Brazilians have studied in Ireland at third level, during Science Without Borders and beyond, and every year Ireland welcomes over fifteen thousand English language students from Brazil. And Brazilians’ love of Irish culture is clear from this exhibition.

In addition, Ireland is now home to tens of thousands of Brazilians, a community which has grown exponentially in recent years and has made a hugely valuable contribution to Irish society. The bonds that have been created by the Brazilian diaspora living, working and studying in Ireland are immeasurably positive.

The positive momentum that has been created in our bilateral relationship is very welcome, and both sides look forward to strengthened links between our governments and people in the period to come.