The decision to close the Irish Embassy to Iran, along with the Embassy to the Holy See and the Irish Aid Office in Dili, was made following a comprehensive review of the Mission network and against a background of the need by my Department to reduce its expenditure in the current difficult economic climate that we face. While the decision was met with disappointment by the Iranian authorities, they have expressed understanding of the very difficult decision the Government has had to take. They have also expressed the hope that the efforts to continue other areas of bilateral contact and co-operation, including political and cultural work, will continue, notwithstanding the closure of our Embassy in Tehran. I fully support this intention.
Despite our serious differences on issues such as human rights and the nuclear issue, Ireland has always emphasised the importance of dialogue and will continue to maintain communication with the Iranian authorities on a range of issues. While there are no plans at this stage to appoint a resident Ambassador based in Tehran, this does not mean an end to diplomatic relations with Iran. The Government plans to maintain diplomatic relations with Iran through the appointment of non-resident Ambassador, based in the region.
In 2010, Iran was Ireland's 55th largest merchandise trading partner, with merchandise trade worth €86.8 million. Irish exports were valued at €81.6m and imports were valued at €5.2m.
Irelands' principal merchandise exports to Iran include: General industrial machinery, equipment and parts; medical and pharmaceutical products; miscellaneous edible products and preparations. Our principal merchandise imports are fertilisers.
Figures for trade in services with Iran are unavailable from the CSO.
The Government will keep our network of diplomatic missions under review to ensure that it continues to serve Ireland's needs efficiently and effectively and that the available resources are deployed to best advantage.