Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 87: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update regarding the trade mission to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34260/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Government attaches great importance to widening and deepening bilateral relations with China. China is a key high-growth and high-potential priority market under the Government's Strategy and Action Plan for Irish Trade, Tourism and Investment to 2015. Total trade between Ireland and China was worth €7.6 billion in 2010 and over 130 Irish companies now have a business presence on the ground in China.

The Taoiseach intends to visit China and contact is continuing through our Embassy in Beijing to arrange mutually acceptable dates. The trade dimension of this visit will entail close coordination by my Department with the relevant Government Departments and State Agencies. I also hope to visit China next year.