Visiting Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan and Irish President Mary McAleese agreed on Tuesday to boost bilateral relations and expand all-round cooperation between the two countries.

 

Zeng said that both countries had been striving to develop their economies and had made tremendous achievements.

 

China and Ireland shared common interests and similar views on major issues concerning world peace and development, he said, adding that there were broad prospects for the two countries to further advance their ties.

 

McAleese said bilateral relations had improved in recent years with rapidly expanded cooperation in economy and trade, and enhanced exchanges in technology, education and culture.

 

Ireland would continue efforts to promote relations with China, she said.

 

Zeng expressed his appreciation for Ireland's long-term adherence to the one-China policy.

 

On Tuesday, Zeng also attended a business breakfast hosted by Enterprise Ireland.

 

Zeng arrived in Ireland on Sunday for a three-day official visit.

 

(Xinhua News Agency September 27, 2006)