Beijing witnessed a significant diplomatic engagement on January 7 as Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin at the Great Hall of the People. Martin was on an official visit to China, underscoring the growing ties between the two nations.
Li Qiang highlighted that President Xi Jinping had met with Martin the previous day, providing strategic guidance to deepen China-Ireland relations. He noted that joint efforts have steadily strengthened their mutually beneficial strategic partnership, yielding fresh results across various sectors.
Emphasizing commitment to mutual political trust, Li Qiang said China is ready to respect each other’s core interests and major concerns while advancing high-quality practical cooperation. This approach aims to elevate bilateral relations to new heights, achieving high-level mutual benefits and win-win outcomes.
The premier pointed out the robust economic complementarity between China and Ireland. He urged both sides to align development strategies and tap into cooperation potentials in diverse fields to unlock greater opportunities.
In response, Martin affirmed the long history of friendship between the peoples of Ireland and China. He praised the positive outcomes of economic and trade cooperation, which have enhanced the well-being of both nations’ citizens. Ireland stands fully prepared to deepen the strategic partnership, strengthen exchanges at all levels, and leverage complementary strengths for shared prosperity.
This meeting signals a promising chapter in China-Ireland relations, with both leaders expressing optimism for expanded collaboration amid global uncertainties. As trade volumes rise and investments flow, the partnership is poised to deliver tangible benefits, fostering stability and growth in an interconnected world.