On 1 April, Mr Xu Dazhe, Governor of Hunan Province, visited County Carlow and held fruitful talks with Cllr. Brian O'Donoghue, Cathaoirleach, and Ms Kathleen Holohan, Chief Executive of the County Council.

Governor Xu thanked the hosts for the warm reception accorded to him and expressed his belief that cooperation between Hunan Province and County Carlow would enhance mutual understanding and bring benefits to both sides. Mr O'Donoghue and Ms Holohan briefed Mr Xu on the development of high technology and creativity as well as higher education in County Carlow, and expressed their willingness to have cooperation and collaboration on all fields with Hunan Province.

After the meeting, the two sides signed documents on friendly cooperation between Hunan Province and County Carlow.

Governor Xu visited Ireland from 31 March to 2 April at the invitation of County Carlow.