Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has arrived in Beijing today at the head of Ireland's biggest trade mission to China.
He is accompanied by four Cabinet Ministers, as well as representatives of more than 200 Irish companies. Mr Ahern is due to meet the president and premier of China in Beijing during the trip.
His programme during the six-day visit includes visits to Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
The business delegation represents a wide range of sectors, including education, computer software, services, tourism, manufacturing and agribusiness.
Enterprise, Trade & Employment Minister Micheal Martin said he expected a number of 'significant business contracts' to be completed over the course of the mission. Trade between Ireland and China is currently worth €4 billion a year with a strong balance in China's favour.
