Ireland’s ambassador in Cairo says 'Ties with Egypt exceed 50 years, committed to enhancing cooperation'

CAIRO - 17 April 2026: Ireland's Ambassador to Egypt Aidan O'Hara underlined the depth of the bilateral relationship between Egypt and Ireland, noting that their official ties have spanned over 50 years, with even longer-standing human connections.

In an interview with Egyptian Radio, Ambassador O'Hara underscored the strong and multifaceted relationship between the two countries, particularly the positive personal rapport between President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, his Irish counterpart, and the Irish Prime Minister.

This relationship was further strengthened by President Sisi’s visit to Ireland in December 2022.

The ambassador also underlined the shared positions of Egypt and Ireland on several global issues, including efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation and promote peace and stability in the Middle East.

He specifically mentioned cooperation on developments in Sudan, Libya, and Gaza.

O'Hara added that during the presentation of his credentials, President El Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to enhancing cooperation with Ireland across multiple sectors.

He praised the significant progress made in Egypt’s infrastructure, which has contributed to the growth of tourism and an increase in international visitors.

O'Hara also noted a rise in Irish investments in Egypt, especially in the food sector.

He highlighted Ireland’s interest in expanding its investment in higher education, particularly through collaborations with the British University in Egypt and Pharos University, as well as in the technology and aircraft leasing sectors.

Egypt now exports fruits and vegetables to Ireland, further solidifying economic ties. O'Hara stressed that the strategic partnership between Egypt and the European Union is expected to foster additional Irish investments in Egypt.

The diplomat also underlined the historical ties between the two countries, recalling several notable Irish figures who had a lasting impact in Egypt.

Among them were Harper, who founded a charity hospital in the Menoufia governorate in 1909, and Officer Jerr Anderson, who amassed a collection of artifacts in his home near the Ahmed Ibn Tulun Mosque, which eventually became a museum.

O'Hara highlighted Ireland’s intention to transfer its expertise in small-scale technology industries to Egypt and to support investment in this critical sector.

Ambassador O'Hara, who holds a law degree, has held various diplomatic roles in Ireland’s embassies in Paris, Prague, and Washington.

He also served as Ireland's ambassador to Ethiopia and is currently serving as Ireland’s ambassador in Cairo, while also holding the position of non- resident ambassador to Lebanon.