Former senator appointed Honorary Consul

Former Roscommon TD, minister and senator Terry Leyden has been appointed as Honorary Consul of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The Government of Ireland approved the appointment of Mr Leyden to the role with jurisdiction for Ireland. This appointment was made by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, IIham Aliyev in May 2024. In a ceremony at the Azerbaijan Embassy in London last week his appointment was officially announced.

Speaking to the Roscommon Herald Mr Leyden said: “The bonds between Azerbaijan and Ireland are strong. It is an honour to have the opportunity to represent Azerbaijan in Ireland.” He added that during his tenure as Honorary Consul he would spare no efforts to develop friendship, cultural and economic-trade relations between Ireland and Azerbaijan.

“I will work hard to provide consular services to citizens, to strengthen business and cultural connections and to continue my ongoing work to promote Irish business abroad.” Mr Leyden said he believed he was the first Roscommon person to ever be appointed to such a role. The process began last year after the Government of Azerbaijan nominated him to the department of foreign affairs.

The Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr John Keogh congratulated Mr Leyden saying: “This is a great honour for Terry to be appointed to the position and he is the first Roscommon person to be appointed an Honorary Consul. I wish Terry success in his role and I look forward to him developing trade links with Azerbaijan.”