Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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340. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the commitment in the programme for Government on developing a new cross-sectoral whole of government Asia-Pacific strategy; and if this is progressing. [33548/16]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Partnership Government agreed in May 2016 contains a commitment to develop a new cross-sectoral, whole-of-government Asia Pacific strategy, recognising the strengthening relationship between Ireland and many Asia Pacific countries. Last month the Government approved a proposal to commence work on this, as well as a new strategy for the Americas. These will form part of the Government’s overall Trade, Tourism and Investment strategy, which will cover the next five years.

Work on the new Asia Pacific strategy is underway at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The process will be overseen by an inter-Departmental steering committee which is asked to report to Cabinet in early 2017 with a draft strategy.

The timing is appropriate as, in the aftermath of the UK referendum vote, Ireland moves to consolidate our bilateral and trade relationships with established partners and find new trade opportunities with growing markets. Total exports of goods and services from Ireland to the Asia Pacific region exceeded €20 billion in 2014 and continues to grow. Nine of the 10 fastest growing mega-cities in the world are in Asia. In years when economic growth in the western world was muted, many countries in Asia achieved consistent average annual GDP growth rates in the range of 5pc to 8pc per annum. There is strong potential for Ireland to develop real, lasting and strong economic and social links in this region.