Chinese Ambassador to Ireland Zhao Xiyuan Attends the 2026 Happy Chinese New Year Gala in Ireland

On February 16, Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan and Madam Li Yi attended the 2026 Happy Chinese New Year Gala held at the National Concert Hall. Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern attended the event and delivered remarks. More than 1,000 guests were present, including representatives from government departments and the Defence Forces, deputies from the Dáil, Cathaoirleach and Mayors from local counties, diplomats from various countries, and figures from across Irish society.

In his speech, Ambassador Zhao noted that the Chinese New Year has fostered deeper cultural and lifestyle exchanges between the peoples of China and Ireland. He highlighted that in the Chinese zodiac, the horse represents strength, speed, and an adventurous spirit, and expressed his hope that the coming year bring continued success to China-Ireland bilateral relations.

Mr. Bertie Ahern extended New Year greetings in Chinese and emphasized that Ireland-China relations are vibrant and constructive, with political, economic, educational, and cultural ties continuing to deepen and the foundation for bilateral relations steadily expanding.

The evening's performances were jointly presented by the Zhejiang Wu Opera Art Research Institute, the Wuju Art Heritage Center of Jindong District in Jinhua, and the Lanyu Liyu Theatre Research Institute. Their captivating performances and distinctive Eastern aesthetics received waves of applause, with warm interaction between the audience and performers.