Chinese Premier visits Mayo farm to view livestock

Sunday 17 May 2015 17.28

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The Chinese Premier greets Chairman of the Oireachtas Foreign Affairs Committee, Pat Breen, at Shannon Airport (Pic: Fine Gael)

The Chinese Premier and a delegation of ministers from Beijing are travelling to a farm in Co Mayo this afternoon, at the start of a two-day visit to Ireland.

Li Keqiang flew into Shannon Airport this afternoon, where he was greeted by the Minister for Finance Michael Noonan.

Premier Li is accompanied by his wife and a number of ministers from the Chinese administration, including those with responsibility for Commerce, Agriculture and Foreign Affairs.

The delegation is visiting the Garvey family farm at Ower in south Co Mayo, where they will view livestock and find out about crop cultivation.

They will also watch a short performance to reflect the musical and cultural heritage of the area.

Later today, the Taoiseach and a number of ministers will hold a bilateral meeting with the Chinese representatives at Ashford Castle.

Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Charlie Flanagan will sign agreements during the discussions with their Chinese counterparts.

A new visa waiver agreement between both countries will exempt visitors from needing a visa for visits of up to 90 days in duration.

The second agreement focuses on increased agricultural cooperation.

It follows the Chinese decision to lift a ban on Irish beef exports earlier this year.