On November 7, 2023, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held formal talks with visiting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ireland Micheál Martin in Beijing.

Wang Yi said that China and Ireland enjoy a long-term friendship and share similar visions. Ireland advocates openness as its development is underpinned by trade. The Shannon Free Zone once provided useful references for China's reform and opening-up. China appreciates Ireland's willingness to view China's development in an objective and rational manner, and hopes to work with Ireland to further consolidate the political foundation of mutual respect and treating each other as equals, demonstrate the China-Ireland cooperation featuring openness, pragmatism and complementary advantages, share new opportunities brought by high-quality development and high-standard opening-up, and elevate the mutually beneficial strategic partnership between China and Ireland to a higher level.

Wang Yi said that in the face of headwinds of geopolitics and protectionism, China follows the historical trend, fulfills its responsibilities as a major country, advocates and practices true multilateralism, and contributes to an open and inclusive globalization that is beneficial for all. China is ready to join hands with Ireland to maintain the core role of the United Nations, improve the global governance system, and jointly address global challenges. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the European Union (EU). Noting that China and the EU are two major forces, two major markets, and two major civilizations in the world, Wang Yi said cooperation between the two sides outweighs competition, and opportunities outnumber challenges. The two sides should stay committed to mutual respect, equal-footed dialogue, and mutually beneficial cooperation. China hopes that Ireland will continue to play a constructive role in promoting the development of China-EU relations.

Martin said that Ireland and China enjoy time-honored exchanges, with both sides respecting and learning from each other. The one-China policy is a clear stance of successive Irish governments. Ireland admires China's development achievements, appreciates China's leading role in global governance, and stands ready to continue deepening mutually beneficial cooperation and people-to-people and cultural exchanges between Ireland and China. The world is interdependent, and open free trade and stable industrial and supply chains are crucial. Ireland does not subscribe to protectionism, supports multilateralism, and supports discussions on the synergy between the EU's Global Gateway plan and the Belt and Road Initiative.

The two sides also had an in-depth exchange of views on international and regional issues of mutual interest and concern.