On 12 Feb 2007, the Chinese Embassy in Ireland, together with the local Chinese Community, hosted a New Year Gala Evening in the National Concert Hall. Over one thousand people including a number of Irish guests enjoyed the performance by troupers from China and Chinese artists and students in Ireland. The audience was excited by the great variety of the Chinese arts, from indigenous dance to Kung Fu, from pop music to Bel canto and from acrobatics to opera. The three-hour show ended up with warm applause and best wishes for more happiness and success to all the Chinese people both at home and abroad in the coming Chinese New Year of Pig.

Before the Gala, the Chinese Ambassador His Excellency Mr. Zhang Xinsen made the welcome remarks. The full text is as follows:

"Distinguished Guests:

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today we are happily gathering here to celebrate the approaching Chinese New Year, which falls on the coming 18^th February. As it is well known, the Spring Festival is the most cherished occasion for all the Chinese people both at home and abroad. So the gala evening today is in a sense the most important event for all the Chinese in Ireland.

I am extremely happy to see so many Irish friends from government departments, parliaments and from all walks of life join us in the celebration of the Chinese New Year. Tonight, you will not only enjoy the performance by Chinese artists, but also be amazed by Chinese boxing performed by our Irish friends. Over the years, our Irish friends have rendered the Chinese community invaluable support and help. On behalf of the Chinese community, I would like to express our deep gratitude to you all.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

According to the Chinese lunar calendar, this year is the Year of Pig. While it would be a hard job to keep a real pig at home, there are already signs of lovely pig everywhere in China and in the Chinese communities abroad. Pig is a symbol of fortune and luck. I wish every one of you here tonight good luck and fortune in the year of pig.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The past year of 2006 witnessed further development of the relationships between China and Ireland. Reciprocal visits by leadership on both sides have enhanced mutual understanding and cooperation in all aspects. The Asia Strategy worked out under the auspices of the Irish Government gives an even stronger push to the furthering of our bilateral relations. One example is the strong growth in the economic links. Our bilateral trade volume of 2006 has reached more than 5 billion euros. Increasing number of Irish companies are investing in China and over 20000 Irish citizens traveled to China last year either on business or on tourism. I am sure the year of pig augurs well for even stronger links between our two great countries.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Ireland is a country of multi-culturalism and diversity, which has contributed much to the country's social harmony and economic prosperity. Over the years, the Chinese community here have worked hard and got along well with the local population. They are proud of their contribution to Ireland's economic boom and being part of the Celtic Tiger. I am sure in the time to come, they will work even harder together with the local people to bring about more harmonious and prosperous Ireland.

In closing, I would like to give my deep thanks to my friends both from the Chinese community and Irish communities for bringing about this great event.

Thank you and enjoy the performance."