Honourable Ceann Comhairle Ms Murphy,
Distinguished guests and Dear friends,
Good evening,

It’s my great pleasure to welcome you all to today’s Chinese New Year Gala! I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all of you for health, happiness, and success in the year ahead. 新年快乐—Happy New Year!

In China, celebrations for the Chinese New Year throughout the entire first lunar month—正月. Today is the 20th day of 正月and is particularly meaningful to me, as it also marks my first opportunity to officially address such a distinguished audience here in Ireland. Last week I presented my credentials to President Higgins, I am truly grateful for the warm welcome I have received since my arrival, and look forward to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between China and Ireland during my tenure.

As we step into the Year of the Snake, it is natural to reflect on the progress and achievements of the past year and beyond. Over the past year China’s GDP reached 18.5 trillion USD, growing by 5%, reaffirming its role as a key driver of global economic growth. Our commitment to green development has led to the establishment of the world’s most comprehensive new energy industry, driving annual NEV production beyond 10 million for the first time. It not only reduces environmental impact but also lowers costs, making cars more affordable and accessible to a broader population. Additionally, China have increased basic pension benefits, lowered mortgage rates, and continue striving to ensure a prosperous and fulfilling life for its 1.4 billion people.

Remarkable strides have also been made in technological innovation. The Chang'e-6 carried payloads from France, Italy, ESA and Pakistan, successfully collected samples from the far side of the moon, marking another milestone in human’s journey to the stars. Breakthroughs were achieved in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and quantum communication. Chinese start-up DeepSeek proved that advanced AI can benefit the masses, not just the few, and AI’s value should not lie in proprietary models but in what we are all able to do with it.

China is striving towards the great goal of national rejuvenation with Chinese-style modernization, staying on the path of peaceful development, and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. We value the insights and lessons from China’s development history in addressing today’s global challenges and are willing to share them with the world. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, over a hundred countries are collaborating to build a global community of cooperation, creating opportunities for shared growth and development. At the same time, China is reducing restrictions on foreign investment, fully opening its manufacturing sector, and unlocking the benefits of its vast market, offering new opportunities for countries worldwide, including Ireland.

This brings me to the enduring friendship between China and Ireland. Despite the geographic distance between us, the connections between our two countries have never been stronger. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi just visited Ireland, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation across various fields and deepen people-to-people exchanges, bringing more tangible benefits to both people.

Ireland has become an important trading partner for China within the European Union. From high-quality Irish dairy products, which are now widely enjoyed in China, to Irish technology and education, the story of Ireland are widely recognized and valued in China. 

Beyond trade and business, the bonds between our peoples are perhaps the most important aspect of our relationship. Today, Chinese festivals and traditions are celebrated across Ireland, from Dublin to Cork, from Limerick to Galway, the Chinese community has become an integral part of Ireland’s vibrant multicultural landscape.

A year ago China first introduced the visa free policy for countries including Ireland. In 2024, the number of people from other countries entering and leaving China reached 65 million, an increase of 82.9% year-on-year. We warmly welcome more Irish friends to visit China, explore its rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, and experience the enduring friendship between our two nations.

Finally, I would like to turn our attention to the heart of tonight’s celebration: the Chinese New Year. Recently, it was inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. What makes Chinese New Year truly special is its universal message: a celebration of harmony, unity, and renewal. As we celebrate here tonight in Ireland, we are also contributing to a global spirit of togetherness. By honoring each other’s traditions and values, we strengthen the bonds of friendship that unite us, proving that diversity is not a barrier but a bridge to greater understanding and cooperation. Given the new developments and under the current circumstances around the world, the cooperation is more needed than ever.

As Chinese Ambassador to Ireland, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for our two countries. I firmly believe that the friendship between our nations will continue to grow. I want to thank each of you for joining us tonight. May the Year of the Snake bring you and your families health, happiness, and prosperity.

Go raibh maith agaibh!