The leader of the People's Republic of China, President Hu Jintao, has told President Mary McAleese that Ireland is a country he regards as an equal and one he wants to do business with.
The two leaders met for an hour of formal talks followed by a state banquet in Beijing today.
A ceremonial welcome for Mrs McAleese was forced indoors at the Great Hall of the People by bad weather. The two presidents discussed economic development in both countries and bilateral relations.
Before attending a State dinner in her honour, President McAleese expressed the hope that President Hu would pay a reciprocal State visit to Ireland.
Mrs McAleese said in advance of her meeting with Mr Hu that it would not be appropriate for her to raise alleged human rights abuses during today's meeting.
However, she said the issue would be discussed in her meeting with the Prime Minister, Wen Jiabao, tomorrow.
Mrs McAleese is heading a delegation of 190, including Minister for Education Noel Dempsey, and business leaders.
