Taoiseach Micheál Martin has met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.
Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin held a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on January 5, 2026, marking the start of a multi-day official visit to China. This encounter represents the first visit by a sitting Irish Taoiseach to Beijing in 14 years, underscoring efforts to strengthen bilateral relations amid evolving global trade dynamics.
The discussions centered on enhancing strategic communication and expanding practical cooperation between the two nations, with an emphasis on achieving mutually beneficial outcomes through mutual respect. Trade emerged as a key focus, reflecting Ireland’s advocacy for open global markets and recognition of worldwide economic interdependence. China plays a significant role in international affairs, including contributions to peacekeeping operations, which was acknowledged during the talks.
The meeting occurs against a backdrop of strained relations between the European Union and China. Beijing has increasingly sought direct engagement with individual EU member states as broader bloc-level ties remain tense. Recent developments include China’s imposition of provisional tariffs on certain EU dairy imports shortly before the visit, following the EU’s duties on Chinese electric vehicles—a measure supported by Ireland and other member states.
Ireland maintains substantial economic interests in China, particularly in dairy exports, which form a vital part of its agricultural sector valued at billions annually. The Taoiseach’s itinerary extends beyond Beijing to include engagements in Shanghai, where discussions with local officials and business leaders in sectors such as financial services, education, food and beverages, and tourism are planned. Additional meetings in the capital involve other senior Chinese leaders, aiming to explore opportunities in higher education partnerships and investment.
This visit aligns with China’s broader diplomatic outreach to European leaders in early 2026, highlighting the ongoing balance between economic cooperation and geopolitical challenges in EU-China interactions. The trip, spanning from January 4 to 8, provides a platform to address both opportunities for deepened ties and existing frictions in international trade.
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