President Hu Jintao and visiting Irish President Mary McAleese Thursday pledged to strengthen bilateral ties.

Hu noted the continuous increase in two-way trade and the positive results in bilateral scientific, educational and cultural ties. He then outlined a four-point proposal for the further development of Sino-Irish relations.

The Chinese leader said the two countries should expand governmental and parliamentary exchanges and actively conduct political dialogue and consultation at different levels.

He also proposed that China and Ireland expand and deepen bilateral economic cooperation. China encourage more Irish entrepreneurs to invest in this country and will encourage competitive Chinese enterprises to take part in infrastructure construction in Ireland, he said.

To enhance bilateral exchanges in science and technology, culture and education, Hu said the two sides should ensure the successful operation of their fund for scientific and technological cooperation, work together to hold cultural festivals in their countries next year and promote the healthy and orderly development of bilateral educational exchanges.

Hu suggested that China and Ireland should properly handle their differences and expand consensus while taking the overall situation into consideration.

McAleese said she felt proud that relations between Ireland and China have developed quickly in recent years.

She said Ireland is willing to work with China to push bilateral ties in politics, trade and the economy, education, science and technology and culture.

The Chinese president expressed appreciation at the Irish Government's persistent adherence to the one-China policy and its support for Chinese reunification.

Hu said the two countries should consult each other more when dealing with international affairs. They should work together towards world peace, stability and development since they share common interests, he added.

Noting that the Republic of Ireland will assume the chairmanship of the European Union next year, McAleese pledged to push for the overall development of EU-China relations and enhance bilateral coordination regarding international affairs.

The Irish president arrived in Beijing on Wednesday. She began her visit in Hong Kong on Monday. This is her first visit to China since becoming president in 1997.

(China Daily October 10, 2003)