On August 13, 2024, Vice Foreign Minister Deng Li met with outgoing Irish Ambassador to China Ann Derwin.

Deng Li spoke positively of Ann Derwin's contribution to the development of China-Ireland relations during her tenure as Ambassador to China. Noting that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Ireland, Deng Li said China is ready to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields with Ireland and promote the sound and stable development of China-Ireland relations and China-EU relations. Ann Derwin thanked the Chinese side for providing support and convenience during her tenure in China and said that Ireland is glad about the fruitful results of Ireland-China relations. Ireland is willing to take the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries as an opportunity to promote cooperation in economy and trade, education, culture and other fields, and support the development of EU-China relations.