Preperations are underway to welcome the Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji to Dublin. The Premier is to pay a four-day visit to Ireland from tomorrow, at the invitation of the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern.
Ahern became the first Irish leader to visit China in 1998 and Zhu will become the most senior Chinese official to visit Ireland. Government sources indicated Ahern would raise concerns about Chinese human rights abuses with Zhu.
"Nothing will be ruled out in the discussions," a source said yesterday.
The leaders will also discuss trade links between the countries, with the government keen for Irish companies to sell more to China.
Trade is currently running more than five times in China's favour. Irish exports last year totalled 131 million punts (151 million dollars, 166 million euros) compared to imports of 706 million punts.
Zhu will be accompanied on his trip by a high-level delegation of more than 100, including four government ministers, vice ministers and senior officials.
Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxun will hold talks with his Irish counterpart, Brian Cowen, about a range of international issues, including the current crises in the Middle East and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the escalating HIV/Aids problem in Africa.
Zhu will also be the first VIP to stay at the recently refurbished 41 million punt Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park. Security has been reinforced, with coils of razor-wire having been laid on top of the perimeter walls around the 78 acre (32 hectare) estate.
During his stay, Zhu will meet President Mary McAleese, sign a cultural agreement, attend a special performance of Irish dancing and be guest of honour at a state dinner in Dublin Castle. On Tuesday, he and his wife, Lao An, will travel to Kerry in the southwest of the country, where they will hold discussions on industrial development.
The Chinese party travels back to Dublin on Wednesday before flying to Brussels.
AFP