On 23 September, Ambassador Liu Xiaoming held an on-line meeting with First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill of Northern Ireland (NI). Consul General of China in Belfast Zhang Meifang was also present.

Ambassador Liu said, at present, China-UK relations have maintained overall development, with regional exchanges and cooperation as an important pillar. China and Northern Ireland have had fruitful cooperation in various fields, especially supporting and helping each other in containing Covid-19, and deepening the friendship between the peoples of both sides. China attaches great importance to the friendly and cooperative relationship with NI and welcomes active engagement from NI in the China-UK Regional Leaders’ Cooperation Scheme. Ambassador Liu expressed the hope that the two sides could enhance high-level exchanges and expand cooperation in investment, trade, education, tourism, sports, and other fields, so as to achieve mutual benefit. China is ready to continue to step up cooperation with NI in fighting the pandemic and overcome the hardship together. He also hoped that the NI government will put practical measures in place to protect the health, safety, legitimate rights, and interests of Chinese nationals, especially Chinese students, in NI.

Both First Minister Foster and Deputy First Minister O'Neill expressed their delight at the robust development of NI-China relationship and their readiness to work together with the Chinese side to promote cooperation in various fields so as to achieve new results. They were also glad the chartered flight by Queen’s University to bring Chinese students to Belfast arrived safely. NI welcomes Chinese students with open arms and looks forward to receiving more Chinese tourists. Currently, with the COVID-19 situation remaining critical, NI hopes to strengthen exchanges on anti-epidemic experience and cooperation with China to jointly meet challenges. The NI government will maintain good communication and collaboration with the Consulate General of China in Belfast and provide support and assistance to Chinese nationals, including Chinese students.

The two sides also exchanged views on other issues of common interest.