Ireland a catalyst for improved China-EU ties

The China-EU trade negotiations may provide the Republic of Ireland with an opportunity to play an important supporting role in promoting harmonious dialogue, which is needed to pave the way toward a satisfactory conclusion. There are many obstacles that need to be overcome and conflicts to be avoided, and that can happen only through open dialogue, hard negotiations and mutual respect.

The resignation of Irish politician Phil Hogan as European trade commissioner for trade last month has not delayed matters unduly. Valdis Dombrovskis, former executive vice-president of EC and Latvian prime minister has been given responsibility for the portfolio. He is a very highly regarded and experienced replacement and control of the portfolio remains with the European People's Party.

This is disappointing from an Irish perspective as the EU commissioner for trade is a coveted and high-profile post which covers policy as well as the management of the EU's internal and external trading partners. It has acquired added significance in light of the ongoing international trade discussions and Brexit.