‘Indians Hugely Valued’: Irish Envoy Speaks On Hornbill Festival, Terrorism, Trade Deal | Exclusive

Last Updated:November 20, 2025, 15:09 IST

Kevin Kelly expressed optimism on the India–EU free trade agreement, saying negotiators are now “in the tunnel” — the final stage of talks.

Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio with Ireland Ambassador Kevin Kelly.

Ireland’s Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, says Indians are “hugely valued" in Irish society. Speaking exclusively to CNN-News18, Kelly said Ireland condemns the recent Delhi Red Fort blast “without hesitation".

He also revealed why Ireland chose Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival for a major cultural collaboration. Kelly expressed optimism on the India–EU free trade agreement, saying negotiators are now “in the tunnel" — the final stage of talks.

Ireland Joins Hornbill Festival 2025

Ambassador Kelly said the embassy’s partnership with the Hornbill Festival marks a major cultural step for Ireland in India.

“We’re a small embassy in Delhi with a small office in Mumbai, but we try to make a big impact through culture," he said. “We love music, theatre and literature — and Hornbill fits beautifully with how Ireland celebrates its identity."

Ireland will participate through music, theatre, spoken-word performances, and a special art installation.

He added that although he has not yet attended the festival, he is “really excited" to be part of it. “I’ve been to festivals around the world, and this one feels very much in line with our own cultural spirit."

On Nagaland’s Popular Tourism Minister

Kelly described Nagaland’s viral social-media-famous Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along as someone with both charm and professional commitment.

“Yes, I’ve met him — he’s great fun," he said with a smile. “He’s serious about promoting Nagaland, very committed to his work, and wonderful company. And yes, extremely popular online — I see that too."

India–Ireland Relations: ‘Small Country With a Big Heart’

Reflecting on the historical and political connection between the two nations, the Ambassador said: “We share a history of fighting for independence from Britain — that’s a deep link between India and Ireland."

He noted that despite its size, Ireland plays a strategic global role. “We’re a small country with a big heart. Our position in Europe, our ties with the EU, the UK, and the United States make us an appealing partner for India."

Bilateral trade, he said, now stands at €16 billion, nearly 10 per cent of India’s total trade with the European Union.

“But we believe there is far more potential. Culture and people-to-people ties are crucial, which is why we’re taking our engagement to new geographies like Nagaland."

India–EU Free Trade Agreement: ‘Hoping for Light at the End of the Tunnel’

On whether the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could be sealed by year-end, Kelly remained cautiously hopeful. “We’re all really hoping," he said.

He explained that negotiators were in what Europe calls “the tunnel" — the intense final phase of discussions. “When they come out of the tunnel, hopefully there’s light — an agreement. Both Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Modi want this concluded this year."

Ireland’s Stand Against Terrorism: ‘We Know the Pain’

Ireland, he noted, has firsthand experience with decades of violence before the Good Friday Agreement. “We know the pain terrorism causes. When we see a terrorist attack, of course we condemn it — immediately."

He said both he and Ireland’s Foreign Minister publicly condemned the recent terror attack in Delhi within hours. “The Indian government has been successful in preventing things from getting much worse. And yes, Ireland offers full support in combating terrorism."

Attacks on Indians in Ireland: ‘Distressing but Isolated’

Addressing concerns about the safety of Indians in Ireland following recent racial attacks, Kelly was unequivocal. “I hope it was an episode — a very sad, upsetting one," he said. “Indian people are hugely valued in Ireland. They run our hospitals, they are some of our best doctors and nurses, and they’ve integrated extremely well."

He emphasised that Irish society overwhelmingly condemned the incidents. “Our ministers met Indian community leaders, our police engaged directly, and arrests were made. These were juveniles influenced by what they see on the internet. The vast majority of Irish people were horrified."

While he said no country could “guarantee absolute safety," he assured that Ireland stood firmly with the Indian diaspora.

Why Hornbill? ‘Delhi Is Not the Whole of India’

Explaining the choice of festival, Kelly said the embassy wanted to move beyond conventional cultural hubs. “I love Delhi — but Delhi isn’t the whole of India. Nagaland is fascinating because of its history, its peace process, and its young audiences. We want to reach people we don’t usually meet."

He said Hornbill’s “indie but significant" nature makes it the perfect platform for Irish culture.

Will the Ambassador Sing at Hornbill?

Known for his love of music, Kelly laughed when asked if he would perform at the festival. “I always love to sing — those who know me know I can’t stop. But no, I won’t take the stage."

However, he hinted that an informal performance “over a cup of tea" wasn’t impossible. Ireland is sending Boinn, a band specially created for Hornbill, featuring members of the widely celebrated Mary Wallopers.

“It’s the best of lively Irish traditional music with a modern twist. I think the crowds will absolutely love it."

News world ‘Indians Hugely Valued’: Irish Envoy Speaks On Hornbill Festival, Terrorism, Trade Deal | Exclusive

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