CEIBS (China Europe International Business School) in Shanghai recently witnessed a significant event that underscored its role as a vital bridge between China and Europe. On November 9th, 2023, the visit by Irish Tánaiste Micheál Martin, a senior leader from a European Union state, brought not only international media attention but also passionate advocates for deeper China-Europe ties to the school’s campus.
Accompanied by a noteworthy delegation including the Ambassador of Ireland to China and the Consul General of Ireland in Shanghai, Mr. Martin’s presence highlighted CEIBS’s importance in fostering international relations.
The event gained additional significance with the attendance of Pat McCarthy, founder of the Ireland Sino Institute, and his wife. Despite facing travel disruptions caused by severe weather, the couple’s determination led them on an adventurous journey from Liaoning Province to Shanghai. Their experience, filled with unexpected turns and moments of serendipity, highlighted their commitment to fostering China-Europe relations.
During the Q&A session following Mr. Martin’s speech, there was a notable exchange between the Tánaiste and Mr. McCarthy, both hailing from Cork. This interaction, characterized by its warmth and sincerity, was not only a testament to the personal nature of international relations but also caught the attention of the Irish media, highlighting the event’s significance.
Mr. McCarthy expressed his admiration for CEIBS, acknowledging its status as a leading institution and a hub for development. His firsthand experience on the campus revealed the school’s welcoming atmosphere and its role in facilitating important discussions and cultural exchanges.
The Ireland Sino Institute, under Mr. McCarthy’s guidance, is dedicated to strengthening relations between China and Europe, with a particular focus on rural development and educational projects. By introducing European perspectives and innovations into rural China, the institute aims to foster a more nuanced and robust dialogue between the regions, promoting mutual understanding and collaboration.
With a five-year plan in place, the Ireland Sino Institute is set to expand its Ireland China initiatives, contributing to the broader narrative of EU-China relations through education, tourism, trade, and foreign investment. The institute aims to organize and spearhead a delegation from China to Cork in 2024, with the goal of signing agreements that will enhance the bilateral relations between the two countries.
These efforts align with CEIBS’s mission to serve as a bridge between China and Europe, further enhancing the bond between the two regions.
