Alan Farrell
Ceist:52. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Taoiseach to report on his recent engagement with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. [2789/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 30 January 2024
Ceisteanna (52)
Freagraí scríofa
I welcomed Premier Li Qiang to Ireland on 17 January for a working visit which marked 45 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and China. In addition to our bilateral meeting, there was a working lunch which included several Chinese ministers; the Governor of the Central Bank of China; the Tánaiste; and Ministers Ryan, Foley, McConalogue and Coveney.
I had a productive meeting with Premier Li and his delegation. We agreed there is more we can do together economically, including in bilateral trade.
The Premier confirmed that the pause on beef exports to China has been lifted.
Premier Li also confirmed China’s unilateral decision to extend a visa exemption to Irish nationals wishing to travel to China for 15 days or less. This is good news for those doing business in China and for encouraging educational and other people-to-people exchanges.
We also discussed global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East.
I was clear that our relationship must be based on values. I expressed our strong commitment to a rules-based international order, based on the UN Charter and a respect for fundamental rights.
As we do in all our engagements with the Chinese government, I raised human rights with Premier Li, including our deep concerns about the human rights situation in Xinjiang and in Hong Kong, as well as the specific case of Jimmy Lai. I welcomed the resumption of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue to discuss these, and other issues including Tibet and the situation regarding Human Rights Defenders.
Questions Nos. 53 to 67, inclusive, resubmitted.