TRADE AND JOBS are due to be discussed by the Tánaiste and Vice President of China, Xi Jinping, during his three-day visit to Ireland, which kicks off today.

Eamon Gilmore said the visit was an important opportunity for Ireland to strengthen and expand trade with the economic giant.

Xi has previously pledged China’s support for Europe during the economic downturn, and described the troubles currently faced by the bloc as “temporary”. However – with Europe its largest trading partner – China has repeatedly called for leaders to react the crisis.

“China does not think one should ‘talk down’ or ‘short’ to Europe, because we believe that the difficulties facing Europe are temporary,” Xi told the Irish Times.

“The EU and the governments and people across Europe have the ability, the wisdom, and the means to solve the sovereign debt problem and achieve economic recovery and growth,” he said.

Trade between China and Ireland is currently worth €8 billion annually. The Government hopes to secure investment and present Ireland as a ‘gateway to Europe’ during the diplomatic visit.

During his stay in Ireland, Xi will also watch a Riverdance performance and visit Bunratty Castle, RTÉ reports.