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.

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

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