As Liberians In Dublin Meet With Ambassador
PHOTO: Amb. Gibson-Schwarz being welcomed by the Foreign Minister of Ireland
London 22/07/2023-In recognition of the heroic services of the Irish service men and women-towards promoting peace and security around the world – Liberia joined in observance of the National Day of Commemoration in Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
Her Excellency, Gurly Gibson Schwarz Ambassador of Liberia- to London; with accreditation to Dublin, was honoured to join other Ambassadors and High Commissioners, in recognition of the occasion.
The ceremony also reflects the ongoing ties with Liberia and Ireland, which is delivering results across varying areas.
She expressed thanks to the Irish Government on behalf of Liberia for their commitment to multilateralism: with the defence Forces of Ireland serving in Liberia through the United Nations Peace keeping Force, to help maintain the peace Liberia enjoys today.
Posing with retired Irish Service men.. The Liberian Ambasador and colleague at the ceremony
The ceremony, which was held on July 9, 2023, was followed on the 10th with a reception- where Amb. Gibson Schwarz, along with other heads of missions were hosted by the Minister of Defence and Foreign Affairs, Hon. Michael Martin, T.D.
She was grateful to meet with a segment of those in the Armed Forces of Ireland, who served in Liberia.
H.E Gibson Schwarz reminded families of those who lost their lives in service: ‘they are in our thoughts and prayers; we will never forget.’
In furtherance of her mandate to represent the interests of Liberians; the top Liberian diplomat also held discussions with representatives of the Liberian Community in Ireland.
The discussions highlighted the concerns and wellbeing of Liberians and reflected the need for Liberians to work together in advancing the collective national agenda.
She hailed them for their efforts to hold together while making progress in their respective areas of concentration.
‘Her Excellency also engaged in insightful discussions about Education opportunities and encouraged Liberians to apply for the Fellowship programme put in place by the Irish Government to help build capacity of Liberians, and then return to Liberia to transfer knowledge after completion of their studies.’
During her meetings with the Director for Africa of the Irish Government she advanced the need-for-exchange programmes for Liberians and Irish students to benefit mutually; with students from Ireland also gaining international experience.
Liberians in Ireland further expressed to the Ambassador the challenges they face in acquiring a UK visa to renew their documents since there is no passport office in Ireland.
Ultimately, the accreditation of the Liberian Ambassador to Dublin seeks to enhance the path to elevating issues of Liberia and Liberians residing across Ireland.
Amb. Gibson-Schwarz assured the Liberian community to meet further on these issues.
The Liberian diplomat assured that she will, ‘Work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs towards finding ways to increase services to the many Liberians living in Ireland especially regarding issuance and renewal of their Passports and other consular services.