Beijing, August 15th—Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with Ann Derwin, Irish Ambassador to China who was going to leave her post. 

Liu thanked Ann Derwin for her contributions to promoting the development of China-Ireland relations and inter-party exchanges between the two countries during her tenure. Liu said, in recent years, the two countries have frequently exchanged high-level visits, with expanding exchanges and cooperation in various fields. The Chinese side is willing to work with the Irish side to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen inter-party exchanges, strengthen political dialogue, enhance mutual understanding, promote practical cooperation in various fields, and promote the development of China-Ireland and China-Europe relations. 

Ann Derwin recalled her work experience in China, saying that she was impressed by the hospitality and friendliness of the Chinese people and witnessed the comprehensive development of Ireland-China relations during her tenure. She thanked the IDCPC for supporting her work, and said that she would continue to follow the development of Ireland-China and Europe-China relations and make efforts for them.