Minister McConalogue to Strengthen Ireland’s Cultural, Community and Development Partnerships in Thailand and Vietnam

Minister of State with responsibility for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD, will undertake a programme of engagements across Thailand and Vietnam from 12-21 March 2026 as part of the Government's St. Patrick's Day outreach in Southeast Asia. The visit will highlight Ireland's cultural and sporting links, support Irish community organisations, advance Ireland's development cooperation priorities, and promote opportunities for Irish enterprise in the region.

Minister McConalogue said:

"Ireland's relationship with Southeast Asia continues to grow in depth and ambition. Across Thailand and Vietnam, Irish organisations, businesses, educators and development partners are doing remarkable work that reflects Ireland's values and strengthens our global presence. This visit is an opportunity to acknowledge their contribution, to reinforce our partnerships, and to open new avenues for cooperation in sport, culture, education and sustainable development."

The Minister will begin his visit in Bangkok. On 14 March, he will attend as Guest of Honour at the St. Patrick's Society Emerald Ball at the Amari Bangkok Hotel, one of the flagship annual events for the Irish community in Thailand.

On 15 March, the Minister will visit the Thailand GAA 'Ellies' children's training session at NIST International School, meeting young players and volunteers promoting Gaelic games in the region. That evening, he will attend a Muay Thai sporting event as a VIP guest, reflecting the strong sporting links between Ireland and Thailand.

The Minister will participate in a media interview at Radio Thailand on 16 March, followed by attendance at a Bord Bia Irish food promotion event at the Anantara Siam Hotel. That evening, he will attend a dinner with Enterprise Ireland clients and key partners, supporting Irish innovation and commercial engagement in the Thai market.

On 17 March, the Minister will undertake a series of St. Patrick's Day engagements, including a television interview with Thai PBS; a visit to the Good Shepherd Centre, meeting Irish missionary Sister Louise Horgan and learning about the Centre's work; attendance as Guest of Honour at the Embassy of Ireland's St. Patrick's Day Reception at the Anantara Siam Hotel.

The Minister will depart Bangkok on 18 March for Vietnam, where he will a visit the TH School GAA blitz for a photo opportunity with students and coaches. That afternoon, he will visit Duc Giang Hospital for a briefing on the regional newborn nutrition project supported by Irish Aid in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. During the visit, he will announce €900,000 in Irish Aid funding for the Alive and Thrive programme.

On 19 March, the Minister will meet Deputy Minister Hoàng Đạo Cương, responsible for sports and cultural heritage, at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. He will then visit UN House for a briefing with the UN Country Team, to discuss Irish Aid funding for the PAPI/UNDP governance and public administration programme.

That evening, he will attend the Embassy's St. Patrick's Day Reception at the Melia Hotel, including a courtesy meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and engagement with Irish community groups and the Viet Celts GAA.

On 20 March, the Minister will travel to Ho Chi Minh City, where he will meet Enterprise Ireland clients; and on 21 March, he will attend an Irish community St. Patrick's Day event before departing for Dublin.

The Minister's visit forms part of the Government's annual St. Patrick's Day programme, which promotes Ireland's cultural heritage, strengthens diplomatic and economic relationships, and supports Irish communities worldwide.

Minister McConalogue added:

"Across Thailand and Vietnam, Ireland is represented by dedicated communities, committed partners and innovative businesses. Their work strengthens Ireland's reputation and builds lasting connections. I am honoured to represent Ireland in Southeast Asia this St. Patrick's Day and to support the partnerships that continue to grow between our countries."