On 7-10 July, at the invitation of H.E. Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl, H.E. Mr. Zhang Chunxian, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, payed an official visit to Ireland.

During his visit, Mr. Zhang met with Mr. Simon Coveney, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Mr. Pat Gallagher, Leas-Cheann Comhairle. He also visited the Confucius Institute at the University College Dublin and Global Center of Kerry Group.

At the meetings with Mr. Coveney and Mr. Gallagher, Mr. Zhang said this year marks the 40th anniversary of China-Ireland diplomatic relations. Not long ago, President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang exchanged congratulatory messages with President Mr. Higgins and Taoiseach Mr. Varadkar respectively. China hopes to work with Ireland on the Belt and Road Initiative and bring more tangible achievements under the China-Ireland Strategic Partnership for Mutually Beneficial Cooperation by deepening economic and trade, investment, science and innovation, green growth, social development as well as strengthening exchanges between legislative bodies.

The Irish side speaks highly about the strong momentum of Ireland-China relations and reiterates its support for multilateralism. Ireland regards China’s development as an important opportunity, and is willing to actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative and become the gateway for Chinese enterprises to enter the EU.

Ambassador He Xiangdong accompanied the delegation throughout the visit.