Promotion of China-Ireland and China-Turkey pragmatic cooperation to new achievements

Yang said, that as the first country to establish a free trade zone, Ireland has a lot of experience to offer concerning the development of an open economy.

Since the outbreak of the eurozone debt crisis, Ireland has acted aggressively to deal with the crisis and became the first among debt-ridden European countries to register modest economic growth.

Turkey has continued its robust economic development in recent years and has become the world's 16th largest economy and Europe's sixth largest. That, Yang said, shows that the two countries have huge potential for cooperation.

In this connection, one of the important aspects of Xi's visits was to further deepen China's pragmatic cooperation with Ireland and Turkey, Yang said.

On China-Ireland pragmatic cooperation, Xi pointed out that the two countries should focus their efforts on exchanges and cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, technology, education, and agriculture.

Xi has made five-point proposals for the deepening of economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. The proposals include promoting the development of trade in the service industry, exploring investment fields, and expanding cooperation in high-tech sectors.

They also include supporting the development of medium-and small-sized enterprises and tapping the potential of the bridging role of business associations in boosting economic cooperation.

Ireland responded positively to Xi's proposals, stressing that the country welcomes the opportunities brought about by China's economic development and it also welcomes increasingly strengthened links in trade, education and tourism.

Ireland is ready to promote its cooperation with China and will offer more convenience and favorable conditions to Chinese businesses so as to facilitate their investment in Ireland and in Europe.

On the issue of China-Turkey commerce, Xi fully affirmed the significant progress made by the two countries under mutually beneficial principles.

Xi pointed out that China's 12th Five-Year Plan (2011-2015) for socioeconomic development and Turkey's aim to become one of the world's top ten economies by 2023 provided a timely opportunity that both countries could seize to expand bilateral cooperation.

Xi stressed that China and Turkey should boost ties in such sectors as finance, energy, infrastructure construction and high-technology. That's to create new points of growth for the pragmatic cooperation of the two countries.

Turkish leaders agreed by saying that strengthening ties with China is a priority as mutual cooperation serves not only the interests of the Turkish people but also of the world.

During his visit, Xi delivered important speeches in commerce forums in Ireland and Turkey that were well received by the businessmen in attendance.

Agreements covering numerous sectors, including investments, financing, technology, and journalism were reached between the government departments, schools and corporations of both countries. The new bonds will boost the economy and trade of both countries as well as promote connections between businesses of the two nations.

Promotion of nongovernmental, humanistic exchange and cooperation

Humanistic exchange is an important foundation and motivation of the development of inter-country relations, Yang said. He added that culture is the bridge that connects the heart and feeling of peoples.

The unique charm of the Irish culture and the richness of Turkish history and culture are attracting more and more Chinese at the same time that Chinese culture is raising interest amongst the Irish and Turkish peoples.

The increased interest indicates that humanistic exchanges and cooperation have become the important founding stones of bilateral friendship between China and Turkey and Ireland.

Upon his arrival in Shannon, Ireland, Xi chatted with farmers to learn about their farms and the living standards of the local residents.

Xi also took time out of his busy schedule to watch popular Gaelic football and hockey matches and a classic Irish tap-dance performance of the River Dance. He also talked with the athletes and performers after the events.

Xi extended a warm welcome to Irish farm owners to visit China and he encouraged the sports, cultural and arts institutions from both countries to cooperate by sharing experiences.

Xi's words were met with enthusiasm from local residents and artists, who said the vice president's personal charm left a deep impression on them.

They said they are willing to strengthen ties with the Chinese people and contribute to the bridge of friendship between the two countries.

This year marks the "Chinese Culture Year" in Turkey and China will host "Turkish Culture Year" in 2013, Yang said.

During his visit to Turkey, Xi fully affirmed the significant value the mutual operation of "Cultural Years" has had on the deepening of traditional friendship and mutual understanding between the two peoples.

Turkey positively responded to Xi's words. Turkish leaders expressed willingness to cooperate with China in ensuring success of the cultural year programs and to promote further development of bilateral friendship.