The Minister addressed members of the Chinese community at the Europa Hotel in Belfast where they enjoyed an opening New Year ceremony of the Unicorn and Lion dance.
The Minister praised the Chinese community for its contribution to local society in social, cultural, and economic spheres.
Ian Paisley Jnr said: “2008 is the year of the Rat which signifies a time of hard work, activity and renewal. These themes are particularly appropriate to our local circumstances and we in the Northern Ireland Executive see the upcoming period as a real opportunity to build a shared and better future for everyone here.
“The Chinese community is now well established with third and fourth generations living in Northern Ireland. The community is highly valued and respected and now forms an integral part of our society. Chinese people continue to make a major contribution to our economic, social and cultural life.”
Mr Paisley Jnr also recognised the growing economic importance of China saying: “China, of course, is now one of the world’s most rapidly expanding economies and we recognise that it offers us huge trade and investment opportunities. Our own exports to China have been increasing steadily and were valued at £65 million in 2006. We are eager, with your help, to promote our local economy as an attractive and viable location for inward investment.
“In 2008 we will have athletes at the Beijing Olympics and it is OFMDFM’s ambition to see the Northern Ireland Executive represented officially in a permanent way in China. We also are planning for Northern Ireland participation in the 2010 Shanghai expo.”
Mr Paisley Jnr added: “The Executive’s primary focus is on economic growth to build a better future for all people including new arrivals. We are committed to building a dynamic, innovative economy, to promote tolerance, inclusion, health, and well-being, to invest and build in infrastructure, to deliver modern, high quality and efficient public services, and to protect and enhance our environment and natural resources.”
The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister is currently working on bringing forward detailed proposals for a ‘programme of cohesion and integration for a shared and better future’ which will build on the solid foundation established by the ‘Racial Equality Strategy’ and the ‘Shared Future’ documents.
Notes to Editors:
This event was organised by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce NI.
Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
