Representative Simon S.K. Tu was invited by former T.D. Mr. John Perry to visit Co. Sligo on the 28th July 2017. He met with local politicians, the Sligo Chamber of Commerce, IDA, EI and other business leaders during the visit which proved to be successful to promote bilateral trade and investment relations between Taiwan and Ireland.
Representative Tu spoke to business leaders and politicians about Taiwan's history, culture, economy, cross-strait relations and Taiwan-Ireland bilateral relations. He remarked that the bilateral trade volume between Ireland and Taiwan has reached €750 million (an increase of 29% on last year) while Ireland is now Taiwan’s 12th largest trading partner in Europe (up from 17th in 2016).
Representative Tu also visited “ IT Sligo” where he encouraged the university to pursue cooperation and exchange with Taiwan’s universities and research institutes. Over 6,000 students are enrolled at IT Sligo and the university cooperates closely with Sligo’s local industries; particularly in biotechnology. Representative Tu also visited Sligo’s IDA Ireland office where he met with CEO of the local Chamber of Commerce, IDA and EI representatives. He spoke of Ireland’s advantages in ICT, agricultural products and pharmaceuticals and emphasised Taiwan’s free, open and large market of 23 million people as an excellent export opportunity for Irish businesses. Representative Tu finished by remarking that Taiwan can act as a springboard for Irish businesspeople into the broader Asian market, which has gained greater importance in the wake of Brexit.
Representative Tu with the Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council.
Representative Tu with Mr. John Perry (right), the Cathaoirleach of Sligo, and business leaders.
Representative Tu meeting with staffs of IT Sligo.
Representative Tu exchanging gifts at IT Sligo.
Representative Tu meeting with CEO and directors of IDA, EI and Chamber of Commerce.
Representative Tu visited Lissadell House
