Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honour to have been invited to address you today and thank you to Martin and the team at Asia Matters for organizing this event, to explore “A Future Vision for China Ireland Partnership.”
Since my arrival in Ireland last November, I have been profoundly impressed by the deep ties between our two nations and the vast potential for growth. Over the past years, our bilateral relationship has grown through mutual respect, equality and fruitful cooperation across various fields, setting a good example of friendly coexistence and win-win cooperation between countries with different histories, cultures and political systems.
I still remember the early days when the meaningful exchanges began between our two countries. In 1933, the renowned Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw set foot in China—a moment that became much more than a simple visit. He marveled at China’s rich heritage and the resilience of its people—a perspective that resonated deeply with the Irish passion for creativity and social progress. In many ways, Shaw’s visit became a symbol of how art, literature, and open-minded conversation can bridge distant worlds, reinforcing a mutual respect that continues to inspire and nurture our enduring relationship.
In 1976, three years before the establishment of China-Ireland diplomatic relationship, the UCD Soccer Club's freshman squad embarked on a historic three-week tour to China. During their trip, they traveled to Beijing, Shanghai, Changsha, Nanchang, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou, sharing their experiences in Irish newspapers and offering the Irish public a rare glimpse into China at that time. The spirit of curiosity, exploration, and inclusiveness demonstrated by those young people remains a driving force in the ongoing development of China-Ireland relations. To this day, photos of that tour, featuring Dr. Tony O’Neill and the players, hang proudly in O’Neill Bar at the UCD Student Centre.
In 1980, after China began its reform and opening up, a delegation led by Mr. Jiang Zemin, who would later become President of China, visited the Shannon Free Zone to study the establishment of modern special economic zones (SEZs). This pivotal visit inspired China to establish four SEZs along its coastline, a transformative step that unlocked new avenues for economic growth. The "Shannon Experience" has served as a valuable reference for China's reform and opening-up while also contributing a unique chapter of mutual learning in the history of economic reform.
Over time, those initial exchanges blossomed into regular visits, engaging talks, and even more collaborative projects that touched on everything from economic development to cultural exchanges. It is encouraging to see this momentum continue, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visiting Ireland last month, following Premier Li Qiang’s visit last year. These visits were more than just formalities—they were invaluable opportunities to gain deeper insights into each other’s perspectives. Each conversation reinforced the idea that our differences are not obstacles but strengths, bringing unique ideas and innovative approaches to the table.
Another exciting aspects of our partnership has been the surge in economic cooperation. China is now Ireland’s 5th largest trading partner around the world and largest trading partner in the Asia Pacific, with two-way trade in goods and services reaching €36 billion in 2023, an amazing figure given our geographic distance. Over the last 5 years, employment in Chinese companies in Ireland increased by 115% to 5 thousands in 2024. There are currently 36 client operations with Chinese origin in IDA Ireland’s client portfolio. And Ireland has long enjoyed a trade surplus with China—a rare and enviable position in global trade. Rather than seeing it as a problem, China sees trade with Ireland as an opportunity—a chance for both sides to grow, collaborate, and, of course, enjoy a few more pints of prosperity together.
While diplomacy, trade, and investment form the backbone of our relationship, it is cultural and educational exchanges that truly bring our nations closer together. Lively cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and music events celebrating both Chinese and Irish heritage are more than just entertainment—they foster deeper understanding and empathy between our peoples.
Each year, thousands of Chinese tourists visit Ireland to experience the magic of the Wild Atlantic Way, the spectacular Riverdance, and the many other attractions that make this country so rich in history and culture. Meanwhile, Ireland’s literary legacy continues to inspire in China—Bloomsday festival have been enjoyed by thousands of Chinese Joyce enthusiasts, highlighting the enduring cultural connections between our two nations.
Universities and colleges have also played a vital role in strengthening our ties, fostering exchange programs and joint research initiatives that have opened new avenues for learning and collaboration. China’s higher education sector maintains strong links with Ireland, including here at UCD, our gracious host today.
Through the Confucius Institutes at UCD, UCC, and the University of Galway, as well as their connections with local schools, more and more Irish people are embracing the Chinese language and culture. Thousands have traveled to China for tourism, work, or study, further deepening our trade, cultural, and educational links. These exchanges are not just about academics—they are building bridges of friendship and mutual understanding that will shape our future cooperation.
Ladies and Gentleman,
Standing here today, I am filled with optimism about the future. As we move forward, I see many exciting opportunities for our partnership to grow and flourish, driven by China’s remarkable development achievements and its constructive approach to relations with Europe.
This month, China’s annual Two Sessions—a mix between a national parliamentary session and a large state-of-the-union event—just concluded, offered us a glimpse into China’s growth and vitality, and will inject new impetus into China-Ireland cooperation, reinforce our commitment to remain optimistic even in challenging times.
China’s political system reveals a robust and inclusive process, which may disappoint some Western media that portrays it as lacking of democracy. Among the deputies to the National People’s Congress, about 40% represent workers, farmers, and professionals, and 14.8% are ethnic minorities. The CPPCC comprises members from 34 vocational panels and 56 ethnic groups, with more than 60% being non-CPC members. Nearly 4,000 formal opinions and over 2 million suggestions from the public are carefully considered in the Government Work Report. This comprehensive feedback mechanism exemplifies whole process democracy, a system that truly connects government policy with the will of the people.
This inclusive political framework has underpinned stable economic development. In 2024, China’s GDP grew by 5% year‑on‑year, and technological breakthroughs—such as in humanoid robotics and DeepSeek—underscore its innovative momentum. Looking ahead to 2025, China will implement proactive macroeconomic policies, boost consumption, expand domestic demand, and nurture future industries, we are confident in maintaining robust growth..
In today’s globalized world, even a large country like China thrives by working with others for mutual success. With this vision in mind, China remains committed to expanding institutional, self-initiated, and independent opening-up, even as economic globalization faces headwinds.
To this end, China is reducing restrictions on foreign investment, fully opening its manufacturing sector, and unlocking the vast potential of its market—creating new opportunities for businesses worldwide. In 2024 alone, 59,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in China, marking a 9.9% year-on-year increase. Over the past five years, the return on foreign direct investment in China has averaged an impressive 9%.
Major global companies continue to show confidence in China’s economic prospects. Tesla’s Shanghai energy storage superfactory has officially begun production. Sanofi is accelerating its biopharmaceutical raw material project in Beijing, and Siemens Healthineers has laid the foundation for its new R&D and manufacturing base in Shenzhen. Numerous large-scale foreign investment projects further underscoring the strong confidence of global investors in China’s future.
As part of its commitment to further opening up to the world, China introduced a unilateral visa-free policy for select countries, including Ireland, last year. This initiative has already made a significant impact—in 2024, the number of international travelers entering and leaving China reached 65 million, marking an 82.9% year-on-year increase. By making travel easier, we are fostering greater people-to-people connections, strengthening business ties, and opening new opportunities for cultural and economic exchange.
Ladies and Gentleman,
Today, the Geopolitical landscape is increasingly turbulent and interconnected. Tariff and trade wars cast long shadows, while challenges in climate change, food security, and energy security emerge one after another. In such complex times, only by working together can we overcome these obstacles and build a shared future. President Xi Jinping, with a global outlook and a commitment to human well-being, has put forward the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind along with initiatives in global development, security, and civilization. These proposals offer innovative Chinese solutions to global challenges. No matter how the international environment shifts, China will remain strategically focused, addressing external uncertainties with steadfast certainty. We will continue to pursue Chinese modernization while fulfilling our responsibilities as a major country--upholding multilateralism, supporting free trade and playing an ever more active role in global development.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU—a milestone reflecting decades of remarkable progress in cooperation. Over the past half-century, trade volume between China and the EU has increased 325 times, while bilateral investment has grown from virtually zero to nearly $260 billion. The China-Europe freight rail network has surpassed 100,000 trips, establishing a vital link between Asia and Europe. Together, China and the EU account for more than one-third of the global economy, underscoring the strategic significance and global impact of their partnership.
China firmly believes that a healthy and stable China-EU relationship will not only drive mutual prosperity but also contribute to global stability and progress. With shared interests and a commitment to dialogue, both sides have the ability and wisdom to resolve challenges through friendly consultations and shape a promising future for the next 50 years.
Ireland is a key and dynamic member of the European Union--thanks to its adaptability and forward-thinking approach. Since the 1980s, Ireland has proactively embraced economic globalization, fostering an open economy and driving industrial innovation. By creating a business-friendly environment, you have successfully attracted high-tech foreign investment, rapidly upgraded your economic structure, and demonstrated remarkable resilience in overcoming challenges—all while maintaining a strong record of sustained economic growth.
Ireland’s long-term vision, crisis awareness, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to justice, both in its national development and on the international stage, are truly commendable. China values its partnership with Ireland and is committed to working together in the spirit of equality and mutual respect. By upholding the principles of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation, we can strengthen high-level mutual trust and further expand meaningful collaboration across various sectors.
First, we should explore more opportunities to tap into our trade potential. In recent years, as a guest of honor, Ireland has participated in prestigious events such as the China International Fair for Trade in Services, the China International Consumer Products Expo, and the China International Digital Commerce Fair. This distinguished participation has helped boost Irish exports—particularly in protein powder, seafood, and whiskey—which recorded impressive double-digit growth in the first three quarters of last year. With a market of 1.4 billion people, more than 400 million of whom belong to a rising middle class, and an economic growth rate of 5%, China offers an expanding landscape of opportunities for Irish products and services.
Secondly, we should look for opportunities to broaden industrial cooperation. Ireland has set ambitious goals to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, with a strong focus on electrifying public transportation and developing offshore wind power. At the same time, China has made remarkable strides in green production. Last year, China produced over 13 million new energy vehicles for the first time, and its newly added renewable energy capacity accounted for more than 50% of the global increase.
Given these complementary strengths, there is great potential for collaboration. China is open to working with Ireland in areas such as green development, the digital economy, new energy, and agriculture, fostering innovation and sustainability for mutual benefit.
Third, we should further strengthen people-to-people exchanges. Currently, China offers a unilateral visa-free policy for Irish citizens, allowing those coming for business, tourism, family visits, transit, or exchanges to enjoy a 30-day stay without a visa. This initiative warmly welcomes more Irish friends to experience China firsthand. Additionally, China has launched the "Young Envoys Scholarship" program, which offers a range of opportunities—from short-term study programs and summer schools to internships and exchange visits—providing multiple channels for the young generations of both China and Ireland to connect, learn, and build lasting relationships.
Fourth, we should continue to deepen international cooperation. Both China and Ireland firmly support multilateralism, uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, and adhere to the principle of the pacific settlement of international disputes. China is open to strengthening coordination and cooperation with Ireland at both regional and global levels. As a representative of open forces within the European Union, Ireland is well positioned to play a constructive role by promoting mutually beneficial collaboration between Europe and China, addressing economic and trade differences through dialogue, and reinforcing the message that Europe and China are united in maintaining international trade rules and a fair competitive environment while jointly responding to global challenges.
The achievements of China-Ireland relations over the past 45 years clearly demonstrate that friendly cooperation serves the common interests of both nations and their people. I am confident that by building on this foundation, our partnership will continue to flourish in the years ahead.
Before I wrap up, I would like to sincerely thank you all for your time and attention. I appreciate your continued support in strengthening China-Ireland relations and welcome your valuable insights and suggestions as we move forward together.