On 6 February, Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan delivered a keynote address at the briefing “Unlocking New Opportunities in the China–Ireland Economic Partnership,” organized by Asia Matters. Around 50 representatives from Ireland’s political, business, and academic communities participated in the event.

In his remarks, Ambassador Zhao highlighted the outcomes of Taoiseach Martin’s recent visit to China. He noted that the past year, marking the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan, saw the Chinese economy overcome external pressures and achieve its projected growth targets, demonstrating its strong dual role as both a major exporter and a dynamic consumer market.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Zhao outlined China’s priorities for the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan. He emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing the strategic blueprint set out at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC, and to leveraging institutional, market, industrial and human capital advantages to promote high-quality development and to expand high-level opening-up. He said these initiatives will create important opportunities for international partners, including Ireland, and he expressed the expectation that Ireland will continue to offer an open, fair and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.

The seminar concluded with constructive discussions among participants on practical areas for enhanced China–Ireland cooperation in infrastructure, higher education, renewable energy and tourism, underscoring shared interest in strengthening bilateral economic ties and people-to-people exchange.