The Chinese Premier has arrived at Dublin Airport for a short visit to Ireland.
Li Qiang arrived on board a Boeing 747-8, which the airport authority has said is the largest ever commercial aircraft to land at the airport.
He was welcomed at Dublin Airport by Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan.
Mr Li is due to hold a meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar tomorrow.
During a working lunch at Farmleigh House tomorrow, the two leaders are expected to discuss global issues, bilateral issues and EU-China relations.
It's here! A very special moment as Air China flight CCA001 arrives at Dublin Airport - the largest passenger aircraft to land here in our 84 year history. We’re delighted to facilitate the arrival of Premier Li Qiang to Ireland. ✈️ pic.twitter.com/d500hBAR3n
— Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) January 16, 2024
Mr Li will also meet President Michael D Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin tomorrow morning.
The Chinese Premier is due to depart tomorrow afternoon.
It is the first time such a high-ranking Chinese official has visited Ireland since Mr Li's predecessor Li Keqiang visited Ireland in 2015.
Prior to that, Xi Jinping visited Ireland in 2012, before becoming President of China for the first time in 2013.
President Xi is now serving his third term in office.
An Garda Síochána has said Dublin Airport will remain open while Mr Li arrives and departs from the airport, but that rolling road closures may be in operation this evening and tomorrow afternoon.
As a result of the visit, Phoenix Park will be closed to traffic until 7pm tomorrow.
Read more
What to expect from Chinese Premier Li Qiang's visit to Ireland
