On September 22, the Chinese Embassy in Ireland hosted a reception to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Chinese Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan and Ceann Comhairle [Speaker of Dáil Éireann, the lower house of the Irish parliament] Verona Murphy delivered speeches.
In his speech, Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan said: “Over the past 76 years, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have forged ahead with determination, continuously advancing Chinese modernisation. These 76 years have also seen China making increasingly significant contributions to world peace, global development, and the progress of humanity. China has historically eradicated absolute poverty, lifting over 800 million people out of destitution and achieving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’s poverty reduction goal a full decade ahead of schedule, contributing more than 70% to global poverty alleviation. Since the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative, over 40 million people in developing countries have been lifted out of poverty.”
He added that: “While celebrating these achievements, China will never forget its journey. Eighty years ago, China was a war-torn and impoverished nation just extricating itself from foreign aggression. China had borne 35 million casualties, accounting for one third of total lost lives in the Second World War. The Western front of the Second World War is often marked by Nazi Germany’s invasion of Poland in 1939. Yet even earlier, on September 18, 1931, the Chinese people fired the first shot of resistance against Japanese aggression in Northeast China, marking the beginning of the Eastern front. China’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the earliest, longest, and most costly campaign of the global Anti-Fascist War. China’s victory on the Eastern front prevented Japanese militarism from joining forces with European fascists, making a vital contribution to the final victory of the Second World War.
“China, though ravaged by war, was never isolated. Doctors, journalists, merchants, and artists from around the world came to China, transforming scalpels, typewriters, and cameras into instruments of rescue. Chinese people will always remember Father Patrick Maurice Connaughton, an Irish bishop born in Galway, who actively raised funds for Chinese people during the war, provided relief to displaced civilians, and supported the education of children amid the devastation of war.”
He also said that: “Over the 46 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China and Ireland have deepened exchanges and cooperation across politics, economy, science and technology, and culture, bringing tangible benefits to both peoples. China appreciates Ireland’s commitment to the one-China policy and is ready to work together to implement the consensus reached by the two state leaders, strengthen high-level mutual trust, deepen high-quality cooperation, and advance our Strategic Partnership of Mutual Benefit, jointly contributing to a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous future.
“The Chinese Embassy will implement the arrangement between the two governments regarding the establishment of the China Cultural Centre in Dublin. The Centre will offer a vibrant program of performances, exhibitions, and seminars to promote cultural exchanges between China and Ireland. It will serve as a dynamic platform for Irish society to better understand China’s development and explore new opportunities for cooperation. As an Irish proverb goes, ‘Ní Neart go Cur le Chéile’ (Unity is strength).”
Ceann Comhairle Murphy praised China’s developmental achievements, honoured the memory of the profound pain, suffering, and hardship endured by the Chinese people during World War II, and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries to achieving peace in our time.
It was the second time within a month for the Chinese Ambassador to mention Father Connaughton. On September 4, in an article carried by the Dublin Gazette, he wrote that: “His efforts represent a significant chapter in the international community’s solidarity with China during that difficult time.”
Reflecting on the 80th anniversary of the victory in the anti-fascist war, he noted: “A major source of turbulence in today’s world lies in the blind belief by some countries in the supremacy of force, which has effectively reopened Pandora’s Box and revived the law of the jungle. A multipolar world does not equate to chaos, it calls for stronger adherence to commonly accepted rules. Without rules, what is at the table today may become part of the menu tomorrow. Major countries, in particular, should act as role models in upholding integrity and the rule of law, firmly rejecting double standards and zero-sum games.
“As a diplomat living in Ireland, I have been deeply impressed by the Irish people’s unwavering commitment to peace and the high international reputation for Ireland’s policy of neutrality. As a Chinese, I am also proud of my country’s approaches and positions on peace and security issues.”
Father Patrick Maurice Connaughton was born in Ballinasloe, County Galway, in 1889. He joined the Franciscan Order in 1906 (when he took the name Maurice) and after study in Rome, where he met the Vicar Apostolic of East Hubei, he was persuaded to go to China in 1912 and was ordained in Hankou (now part of Wuhan) in 1913.
He moved to Wuchang in 1918 and taught in a boys’ school, taking charge of it in 1923. Returning briefly to Ireland in 1935, he set off again for China leading a team of six missionaries in November that year.
Having baed themselves in Anlu, near to Hankou, the start of all-out Japanese aggression against China in July 1937 soon forced the missionaries and their students to disperse. Nevertheless, by 1938, in conditions of war, Father Connaughton and his fellow missionaries were responsible for running three clinics, an orphanage, a home for the elderly, and a number of schools.
The situation was to change dramatically in August 1938. A Japanese advance on Hankou from both the east and north led to a growing influx of refugees. From October, Japanese air raids saw many flee to the hills. Anlu was bombed for the first time on 21 October. Two days later, the Kuomintang troops abandoned the town, and it was occupied by the Japanese on October 28.
The Irish Franciscans – later together with the Methodists – opened refugee camps as the fighting encroached. Eventually, they became home to thousands. At first the camps flew both the British and the Irish flags, but particularly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour in December 1941, this gave way to flying the Irish tricolour only, this giving a somewhat greater, although still limited, degree of protection due to Ireland’s neutrality in the war.
Nevertheless, as the war progressed, Japanese control increased, with the Irish friars finding themselves under virtual house arrest. Nevertheless, Father Connaughton insisted that they all stay and not abandon their mission. On one occasion, two of them were arrested and interrogated by the Japanese, with one of them forced to stand in the snow for three days. He never fully recovered from this torture.
On Christmas Day, 1946, the people of Anlu erected a stone tablet in honour of Father Connaughton and his work to help the Chinese people during the war. He left China in 1951 and died in San Francisco, USA, in 1967.
The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Embassy in Ireland.
Chinese Embassy in Ireland Hosts Reception in Celebration of the 76th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China and in Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War
September 23 (Chinese Embassy in Ireland) – On September 22, the Chinese Embassy in Ireland hosted a reception to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Chinese Ambassador to Ireland Zhao Xiyuan and Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy delivered speeches. Over 300 guests attended, including officials from the Irish government, parliament, and local authorities, as well as friendly individuals from various sectors and foreign diplomats accredited to Ireland.
In his speech, Ambassador Zhao reviewed China’s achievements in poverty reduction, science and technology, economic growth, and green development, as well as its contributions to global peace and development. He highlighted the significance of the Global Governance Initiative and emphasized China’s willingness to work with Ireland to uphold true multilateralism and promote deeper bilateral relations.
Ceann Comhairle Ms. Murphy praised China’s developmental achievements, honoured the memory of the profound pain, suffering, and hardship endured by the Chinese people during World War II, and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries to achieving peace in our time.
Guests also enjoyed themed photo exhibits commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, along with videos showcasing modern China and captivating performances.
Remarks by Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan at the Reception in Celebration of the 76th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China and in Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in World Anti-Fascist War
September 23 (Chinese Embassy in Ireland) – Honourable Ceann Comhairle Ms. Murphy,
Dear friends,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Today, we gather together to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. On behalf of the Chinese Embassy in Ireland, I extend a warm welcome to all our guests and express my heartfelt thanks to friends who have long supported China’s development and contributed to the friendship between China and Ireland.
Over the past 76 years, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have forged ahead with determination, continuously advancing Chinese modernization. These 76 years have also seen China making increasingly significant contributions to world peace, global development, and the progress of humanity. China has historically eradicated absolute poverty, lifting over 800 million people out of destitution and achieving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’s poverty reduction goal a full decade ahead of schedule, contributing more than 70% to global poverty alleviation. Since the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative, over 40 million people in developing countries have been lifted out of poverty.
As a major trading partner to more than 150 countries and regions worldwide, with a vast consumer market of 1.4 billion people, China has become the largest export destination for many nations and contributed a substantial surplus in service trade. In 2024, the U.S. recorded a $27 billion service trade surplus with China, while the EU’s service surplus exceeded $50 billion. Nearly 40% of exports from European companies operating in China were re-exported back to Europe.
“China’s Intelligent Manufacturing” has enriched global supply chains, making once-unattainable technological experiences accessible to all. China’s open-source AI has become a catalyst for global progress, enabling every country and industry to participate in the AI revolution. Chinese enterprises have laid over 200,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cable across Africa, serving more than 900 million people and significantly narrowing the digital divide. As the world’s third-largest outbound investor, China’s Belt and Road Initiative projects reached $124 billion in the first half of 2025, surpassing the total annual investment of 2024.
China is also a top performer in addressing climate change, having built the world’s largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system. As of July 2025, non-fossil fuel sources accounted for 61% of China’s installed power generation capacity.
As a key contributor to global economic growth and an anchor of stability, China will remain committed to high-level opening-up, promoting trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and sharing its development opportunities with the world, injecting more positive energy and certainty into global development.
Ladies and gentlemen, friends,
While celebrating these achievements, China will never forget its journey. Eighty years ago, China was a war-torn and impoverished nation just extricating from foreign aggression. China had beared 35 million casualties, accounting one third of total lost lives in the Second World War. The Western front of the Second World War is often marked by Nazi Germany’s invasion of Poland in 1939. Yet even earlier, on September 18, 1931, the Chinese people fired the first shot of resistance against Japanese aggression in Northeast China, marking the beginning of the Eastern front. China’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the earliest, longest, and most costly campaign of the global Anti-Fascist War. China’s victory on the Eastern front prevented Japanese militarism from joining forces with European fascists, making a vital contribution to the final victory of the Second World War.
Recently, China solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, we do so to remember history, honor the martyrs, cherish peace, and create a better future.
To remember history is to uphold humanitarian values. China, though ravaged by war, was never isolated. Doctors, journalists, merchants, and artists from around the world came to China, transforming scalpels, typewriters, and cameras into instruments of rescue. Chinese people will always remember Father Patrick Maurice Connaughton, an Irish bishop born in Galway, actively raised funds for Chinese people during the war, provided relief to displaced civilians, and supported the education of children amid the devastation of war. The victory of China’s resistance was a triumph shared by all forces of justice worldwide. Last month, the Chinese Embassy hosted a screening of The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, where guests, accompanied by the song “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary,” learned the moving story of Chinese fishermen who braved Japanese gunfire to rescue 384 British soldiers during WWII. These stories reflect a spirit of humanity that reaches beyond borders and should be remembered forever.
To remember history is to better cherish peace. Having endured war, China understands its cost. China is the only major country to enshrine peaceful development in its Constitution and the charter of its ruling party, elevating it to a national commitment. China has never initiated a war, never occupied an inch of foreign territory, is the only major nuclear country to pledge no first use of nuclear weapons, and remains the largest contributor of peacekeepers among permanent members of the UN Security Council, as well as the second-largest financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations.
To remember history is to uphold international fairness and justice. The post-war international order centered on the United Nations was built upon the blood and sacrifice of people around the world. China is a founding member of the UN and the first country to sign the UN Charter. China firmly supports the international system with the UN at its core, the international order based on international law, and the basic norms of international relations grounded in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. China’s victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression brought Taiwan back to the territory of China, marking this year the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to China. The Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation issued by China, the U.S. and the U.K. explicitly stated that Taiwan, once stolen by Japan, must be returned to China. These documents affirm China’s sovereignty over Taiwan and form an integral part of the post-war international order.
To remember history is to build a better future. Though the smoke of WWII has dissipated, the world remains unstable, with many regions still plagued by conflict and instability. President Xi Jinping has solemnly proposed the Global Governance Initiative(GGI), emphasizing five core principles: adhering to sovereign equality, abiding by international rule of law, practicing multilateralism, advocating the people-centered approach, and focusing on taking real actions. Following the vision of working together for a community with a shared future for humanity and the Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives, China once again contributes its wisdom and solutions to strengthening and improving global governance. This initiative is not an overhaul of the existing international order, nor is it a fresh start outside the current international system. Instead, it aims to enhance the executive power and effectiveness of the current international system and mechanisms, making them more in line with the changing situation, more timely and effective in responding to various global challenges, and better serving the interests of all countries. It is widely welcomed by the international community.
Ladies and gentlemen, friends,
China’s unwavering commitment to being a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, a defender for international order, and a supplier of public good is both a choice and a solemn promise to the world. On this path, Europe has always been a vital partner. China and Europe, as leading champions of multilateralism, globalization, and cultural diversity, are both founders and guardians of the post-war international order. In a turbulent and rapidly changing world, China and Europe must shoulder our historical responsibilities together, injecting greater stability and certainty into the world and contributing more wisdom and strength to the advancement of human civilization.
Ireland, as an important EU member, is a staunch supporter of multilateralism and free trade. Its long-term vision, sense of responsibility, proactive spirit, and commitment to justice in both domestic development and international affairs are deeply respected. Over the 46 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China and Ireland have deepened exchanges and cooperation across politics, economy, science and technology, and culture, bringing tangible benefits to both peoples. China appreciates Ireland’s commitment to the one-China policy and is ready to work together to implement the consensus reached by the two state leaders, strengthen high-level mutual trust, deepen high-quality cooperation, and advance our Strategic Partnership of Mutual Benefit, jointly contributing to a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous future.
The Chinese Embassy will implement the arrangement between the two governments regarding the establishment of the China Cultural Centre in Dublin. The Centre will offer a vibrant program of performances, exhibitions, and seminars to promote cultural exchanges between China and Ireland. It will serve as a dynamic platform for Irish society to better understand China’s development and explore new opportunities for cooperation. As an Irish proverb goes, “Ní Neart go Cur le Chéile” (Unity is strength). China stands ready to work hand in hand with Ireland to uphold genuine multilateralism, safeguard the global free trade system, and deepen our Strategic Partnership of Mutual Benefit. Together, we can make meaningful contributions to global peace and sustainable development.
Now, I propose a toast:
To the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China,
To the prosperity of China and Ireland,
To the deep friendship between our peoples,
And to the health of all our guests
Sláinte!
Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan published a signed article in Dublin Gazette titled “Shaping the Future Together——What a Developing China Could Mean for Ireland and Europe”
September 4 (Chinese Embassy in Ireland) – On 4 September, Ambassador Zhao Xiyuan published a signed article in Dublin Gazette titled ”EU-China Relations a force for good in an uncertain world”. The full text is as follows:
It has been 80 years since the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. Amid the devastation of the deadliest war in human history, China and Europe, both as the main battlefields in the East and the West, stood firm against fascist aggression and achieved ultimate victory.
The war is brutal, and its victory was inseparable from the invaluable supports of peace-loving and justice-seeking countries and peoples.
Chinese people will always remember the direct support of numerous anti-fascist fighters from European countries, including Poland, Denmark, Germany, Austria, Romania, and Bulgaria,etc.
Chinese people will always remember Father Patrick Maurice Connaughton, an Irish bishop born in Galway, actively raised funds for the Chinese people during the war, provided relief to displaced civilians, and supported the education of children amid the devastation of war. His efforts represent a significant chapter in the international community’s solidarity with China during that difficult time.
80 years have passed, human society and the international landscape have undergone profound transformations.
We have every reason to be proud of the achievements made. The centuries-old colonial system has been dismantled, the shadow of the cold war has been lifted, people’s living standards have increased significantly, and science and technology have progressed at an unprecedented pace. The pursuit of peace, development, and cooperation has become a shared aspiration across nations, and humanity now looks toward a promising future.
However, it must be acknowledged that the world is still far from peaceful, and serious challenges continue to emerge from time to time. Armed conflicts driven by territory, ethnic, religion and resource persist, and the threat of terrorism remains grave. Many people around the world continue to live in poverty, and development efforts encounter numerous challenges. Environmental pollution, the spread of infectious diseases, and various forms of transnational crime pose growing threats.
A major source of turbulence in today’s world lies in the blind belief by some countries in the supremacy of force, which has effectively reopened Pandora’s box and revived the law of the jungle. A multipolar world does not equate to chaos, it calls for stronger adherence to commonly accepted rules. Without rules, what is at the table today may become part of the menu tomorrow. Major countries, in particular, should act as role models in upholding integrity and the rule of law, firmly rejecting double standards and zero-sum games.
People always want certainty and goodwill. 76 years ago, the People’s Republic of China was established. Today, when one examines what China has said and what it has done, it is more likely to see a reliable partner rather than a competitor or even a systemic rival.
China has been a strong force in safeguarding peace. As a diplomat living in Ireland, I have been deeply impressed by the Irish people’s unwavering commitment to peace and the high international reputation for Ireland’s policy of neutrality. As a Chinese, I am also proud of my country’s approaches and positions on peace and security issues.
As the only major country in the world to have peace written in its constitution and the only major country to have committed not to be the first to use nuclear weapons, China does not initiate wars, engage in conflicts, or compel other countries to take sides for geopolitical purposes.
When security concerns rising, strengthening national security is a reasonable response. For ourselves, China has not yet to achieve national reunification, and its Taiwan, Xizang and Xinjiang regions remain under threat and disturbance from separatist forces and terrorism.
However, universalizing security concerns to all matters is not an effective approach. As the saying goes, “If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.” Forcibly linking economic, technological, and cultural issues to security risks will undermine mutual understanding and trust, thereby intensifying confrontation.
There is a belief that humanity forms an indivisible security community, and that the security of one nation should never come at the expense of another. The security interests of all countries are equally important. China consistently pursues a defensive national defense policy, focused solely on meeting legitimate security needs, with its defense budget remaining at approximately 1.5% of GDP.
China has been a strong force for promoting development. Domestically, more than 800 million people have been lifted out of absolute poverty, contributing to the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals a decade ahead of schedule. Remarkable progress in science and technology has also been made, from 5G, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and robotics that improves daily life, to forefront breakthroughs in lunar exploration and cancer treatment.
As an old Chinese saying goes, “a single flower does not make spring, but a hundred flowers in full bloom bring spring to the garden.” The same applies to international cooperation. The Chinese economy is still undergoing transformation in its development model and optimizing its economic structure. Unbalanced and inadequate development remains a significant challenge, presenting both difficulties and opportunities that require joint efforts to address.
Through initiatives like the Belt and Road, shared development with the Global South has been promoted through extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits. The Global AI Governance Initiative and other frameworks have been proposed to support the inclusive and responsible development of artificial intelligence. China also continues to expand high-standard opening up to the outside world by comprehensively liberalizing manufacturing access and granting zero-tariff treatment on products from all least developed countries.
China has been a strong force in advancing inclusiveness. Its historical engagement with the outside world was characterized not by clashes of civilizations, but by cultural integration. Through such exchanges, complementarity and innovation have been fostered. For example, Buddhism, originally introduced from India, developed in China while simultaneously advancing China’s Confucianism and Taoism to new stages of growth.
The Global Civilization Initiative, proposed by China, based on the belief that tolerance, coexistence, exchanges, and mutual learning among different civilizations play an irreplaceable role in advancing humanity’s modernization process and fostering the flourishing of the world’s cultural diversity, especially as countries become increasingly interconnected. Guided by this idea, visa-free access has been unilaterally granted by China to citizens of more than 100 countries, and the Young Envoys Scholarship for encouraging exchanges among young generations has been initiated.
China has been a strong force in championing multilateralism. From the principles of equality and sovereignty established by the Peace of Westphalia to the humanitarian spirit enshrined in the Geneva Conventions, the pursuit of a just and equitable international order has long been a shared aspiration of humanity. Over the past 80 years, the UN, as the most representative and authoritative intergovernmental organization, has played an irreplaceable role in promoting peace and security, development and human rights. Thanks to these efforts, the world has experienced the longest period of stability and prosperity in modern history.
China was the first country to sign the UN Charter and has consistently fulfilled its international responsibilities and obligations. Its contribution to UN regular budget has grown from less than 1% in 2000 to over 20% today. China is also the second-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping operations and the largest provider of peacekeeping troops among the permanent members of the Security Council. Over the past 35 years, Chinese defense forces has carried out 26 peacekeeping missions, deploying more than 50,000 personnel and 17 of whom have made the sacrifice in service.
Taiwan’s return to China is an integral part of the victory of World War II and the post-war international order. A series of documents with the force of international law, including the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, have reaffirmed China’s sovereignty over Taiwan province, and these historical and legal facts are indisputable.
On October 1, 1949, the Government of the People’s Republic of China was established as the sole legitimate government representing all of China, replacing the government of the Republic of China. This change of regime did not alter China’s status as a subject of international law. China’s sovereignty and inherent territorial boundaries remain unchanged. The government of the People’s Republic of China naturally enjoys and exercises full sovereignty, including Taiwan Province. The authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 is indisputable. The one-China principle is the fundamental basis for all countries establishing diplomatic relations with China.
It is clearly evident that over the past decades, China’s development has embodied the rise of a positive force contributing to global peace and progress.
And the effort is still going on. This year, China hosted the World AI Conference and the Global Civilizations Dialogue, aiming at addressing global challenges through joint efforts of the international community. We are willing to open our arms to all countries and warmly welcome future collaboration with Ireland and Europe in the fields of mutual interests.
Looking ahead, the prospects for China’s development are both promising and inspiring. As reflected in economic indicators so far this year, its economic growth reached 5.3% in the first half of 2025, contributing over 30% to global economic growth. Significant investments have been made to encourage consumer spending, including comprehensive childcare subsidies and consumer goods trade-in programs. The IMF lowered its global economic growth forecast for 2025, while simultaneously raising its forecast for China’s economy in 2025 by 0.8 percent to 4.8%.
In 2024, China’s total retail sales of consumer goods exceeded 48 trillion CNY, marking a year-on-year increase of 3.5%. From 2021 to 2024, cumulative imports of various consumer goods reached 7.4 trillion CNY. China welcomes high-quality goods and services from Ireland and Europe, and its vast, open market will continue to offer significant opportunities for Irish and European enterprises.
China-EU relations has also gone through five decades. As long as both sides remain committed to openness and win-win cooperation, the trend of economic globalization will maintain resilient. China looks forward to working with Ireland and EU to safeguard the post-war international order and the multilateral trading system, to provide the world with much-needed stability and certainty, and to create a better future based on mutually beneficial cooperation and shared development.
