Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Monday invited Irish businesses to explore investment and trade opportunities in the state, saying the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could create new avenues for economic cooperation between Gujarat and Ireland.
Patel extended the invitation during a meeting with Patrick Duffy, Consul General of Ireland, held on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for Central Gujarat in Vadodara. In a post on social media platform X after the meeting, the Chief Minister said the discussions focussed on strengthening economic ties between Gujarat and Ireland and expanding cooperation in sectors with mutual growth potential.
"Glad to meet Patrick Duffy, Consul General of Ireland, as a part of VGRC for Central Gujarat. Had a fruitful discussion on strengthening the Gujarat-Ireland economic partnership. With the upcoming India-EU FTA opening new avenues, I invite Irish businesses to explore the immense investment and trade opportunities in Gujarat," he wrote.
The Chief Minister said both sides also discussed expanding collaboration beyond trade and investment. "We look forward to deepening our collaboration in technology, skill development and sports diplomacy, further cementing Gujarat's position as a preferred global investment destination," he added.
The meeting formed part of a series of engagements between the Gujarat government and foreign diplomatic representatives attending the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference, which opened in Vadodara on Monday. The two-day conference has brought together representatives from partner countries, including Ireland, Japan, Ukraine and Rwanda, along with investors, industry leaders and policymakers to explore investment opportunities across Central Gujarat.
The conference is aimed at promoting regional industrial development, strengthening international partnerships and attracting sector-specific investments ahead of the next Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, scheduled to be held in Gandhinagar in January 2027.
Earlier in the day, the state government highlighted Gujarat's continued focus on policy stability, industrial infrastructure and ease of doing business, alongside the launch of new initiatives including Smart GIDC Estates. The conference also features a trade exhibition showcasing MSMEs, startups, women entrepreneurs and tribal artisans, providing a platform for local enterprises to connect with domestic and international investors.
Patel has consistently emphasised the importance of expanding Gujarat's global partnerships through the Vibrant Gujarat platform. His meeting with the Irish Consul General reflects the state's efforts to leverage emerging international trade opportunities and strengthen cooperation in technology, innovation and skills as it seeks to reinforce its position as one of India's leading investment destinations.