2024 has been an exciting year for the Ireland Sino Institute. In January, Chairman Pat McCarthy initiated efforts to establish channels for mutual development between Cork City and Shenyang. After months of diligent work as a broker, facilitating cooperation between the Cork Chamber of Commerce, Cork City Council’s International Relations Office, and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Shenyang Sub-Council (CCPIT), the efforts reached a significant point in March 2024. This led to a promising response from Cork City Council’s International Relations Officer, Mr. Ciarán Kelleher: “We are open to considering mutually beneficial international projects which may serve as the prelude to the development of more formal ties” Ciarán Kelleher, International Relations Officer at Cork City Council The above two photos feature the delegation from the Ireland Sino Institute alongside representatives from the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Shenyang Sub-Council (CCPIT). In the medium term, the Ireland Sino Institute aims to build upon this promising development with the highly professional team from CCPIT. Establishing a task force and allocating resources will help advance the relationship between Shenyang and Cork, potentially leading to increased trade, educational, and cultural exchanges, as well as the establishment of more formal ties. Pat McCarthy highlights the attractiveness of Cork: “Ireland’s southern region — including counties Wexford, Waterford and Cork — was the richest area in the EU according to recent research.” Pat McCarthy, The Ireland Sino Institute More recently, the Ireland Sino Institute was invited to attend the 10th anniversary of the establishment of China Queen’s College (CQC), a joint college between Queen’s University Belfast and China Medical University, located in Shenyang. Belfast City Council signed a friendly cooperation agreement with Shenyang in 2014, with the relationship upgraded to sister city status in 2016. Pictured at the 10th anniversary of China Queen’s College on September 9th, 2024: Kerry Curran, Director of the Northern Ireland Bureau in China, alongside Pat McCarthy, Chairman of the Ireland Sino Institute In conversation with the warm, welcoming, and modest Director of the Northern Ireland Bureau in China, Kerry Curran, Pat McCarthy mentioned that he and his team look forward to collaborating with the Bureau to advance, strengthen, and provide sustenance to the sister-city relationship between Belfast and Shenyang. Pat McCarthy commented: “The sister-city relationship between Shenyang and Belfast offers vast opportunities in trade, culture, education, and tourism.” Pat McCarthy, The Ireland Sino Institute Pat also wanted to emphasize that his organization represents the entire island of Ireland, all 32 counties, and is committed to providing support for the Northern Irish community in China. Moving forward, the Ireland Sino Institute, now in the second year of a major five-year plan, will further expand its non-profit work in rural Liaoning, where it has provided English education to 20,000 rural Chinese children, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, since 2012. The Institute has also awarded numerous scholarships to support these children. Additionally, the Institute is making progress on establishing an “Ireland Centre” in Shenyang, focusing on education, trade, culture, and tourism initiatives between Ireland and Shenyang. Throughout this wonderful journey, the Ireland Sino Institute has formed new partnerships in Ireland, Liaoning, and other areas across China, and looks forward to working with them for mutually beneficial outcomes. The Ireland Sino Institute is a non-profit, non-political organization headquartered in Liaoning Province Dedicated to strengthening ties between the island of Ireland and China through various initiatives Fostering mutual understanding and development. It is also registered under the Charities Act in China. It was endorsed by the China State Council in 2018, which is currently led by Premier Li Qiang.
Ireland in China: Pioneering China Tour to Promote Exchanges
The Ireland Sino Institute launches a 6-day tour in Liaoning to promote Ireland China exchanges, utilizing new visa-free travel policies for easier access.
With these new policies, travel from Ireland to China has become significantly easier for Irish and European citizens.
Drawing Resilience From Michael Collins
Discover the transformative impact of the Ireland Sino Institute, a dedicated non-profit registered with the Ministry for Civil Affairs in Northeast China and affiliated with the EU Chamber and Irish Chamber of Commerce. Since 2012, the Institute has been a pivotal force in strengthening Ireland-China relations through its innovative educational initiatives. Focused on bridging the gap for rural children in Northeast China, the Institute introduces Irish and European educational perspectives, traditions, and practices to areas where opportunities are scarce. Founded on the McCarthy family’s life savings, the Ireland Sino Institute has provided thousands of free and subsidized scholarships to children from disadvantaged backgrounds over the years. This commitment reflects the institute’s dedication to education and equal opportunity, making a lasting impact by investing in the future of those who need it most. https://appen.media.gov.cn/engovdata/medias/goven/201803/01/419085/media_13944@2x.mp4Here, many children, especially girls, face high school dropout rates. Thanks to the Institute’s efforts, thousands of these children have not only completed high school but have also advanced to contribute meaningfully to common prosperity, echoing the vision of President Xi. The significance of their work was highlighted during a visit by the offices of the late Premier Li Keqiang and acknowledged by the China State Council in 2018. Their achievements were further recognized in an interview published on the website of the Chinese Government the same year. Chang McCarthy, who has dedicated her life to helping young girls graduate, is a key figure in the Liaoshen Campaign and in mutual development between Ireland and China. Pat McCarthy and his son, Setanta McCarthy from the Ireland Sino Institute, pictured with Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Leader of Fianna Fáil, Micheál Martin at CEIBS, Shanghai, 2023. Inspired by Her Excellency Ann Derwin, Ambassador of Ireland to China, who is renowned for her work in rural development and promoting gender equality, Chang McCarthy from the Ireland Sino Institute has played a crucial role in similar initiatives. Each year, approximately 3 million children in rural China, two-thirds of whom are girls, leave school before reaching middle school. Through her impactful efforts at the Ireland-Sino Institute, Chang McCarthy has significantly helped many of these girls to graduate, continuing the legacy of Ambassador Derwin’s dedication to these vital causes. Ireland in China:The Ireland Sino Institute delegation pictured with Her Excellency Ann Derwin, Ambassador of Ireland to China, and Michael McGrath, Minister for Finance, during a St. Patrick’s Day event on March 17th, 2024. The work of the Ireland Sino Institute has been recognized by several prestigious entities, including the Irish Embassy, Governor Li Lecheng of Liaoning Province, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, Irish Minister for Finance Michael McGrath, and CEIBS Shanghai, a leading provider of MBA programs. Recently, the Ireland Sino Institute has been actively promoting exchanges and has reached out to both Cork County Council, Cork City Council, and CCPIT (China Council for the Promotion of International Trade) to explore potential collaborations on mutual projects with Liaoning. These efforts aim to build mutual understanding, awareness, and strengthen ties between the regions. Such exchanges serve as the lifeblood of international cooperation, fostering not only mutual development and understanding but also contributing to peace and prosperity across borders in our increasingly complex world. The Ireland Sino Institute is grateful for the insightful and valuable advice provided by Cork County Council, Cork City Council, Cork Chamber, and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). In a recent interview with Chinese media in 2023, Pat McCarthy revealed that President Xi’s 2012 visit to his home province of Munster in Ireland was the catalyst for founding the Ireland Sino Institute. President Xi’s vision of common prosperity, equality, and exchanges to foster global peace and prosperity greatly inspired both Pat and Chang McCarthy in their work. Due to their contributions to the Liaoshen Campaign, the Rural Revitalization Plan in Northeast China, their work was highlighted by China media in early 2024. Pat McCarthy from the Ireland Sino Institute proposed ideas during the launch of the Liaoshen Campaign, a Rural Revitalization Plan for Northeast China, at the 2023 Opening-Up Conference in Liaoning Province. The Ireland Sino Institute has actively promoted tourism in Liaoning Province by organizing tours of the area, aiming to attract more visitors, especially from the expatriate community, which has historically been small.https://youtu.be/n2NYd5Qqxk8?si=Mk6PYynMyq86Lb8e Current Challenges Some of the current challenges we face at the Ireland Sino Institute include economic turbulence, a lack of funding, and universal support for our vision. Additionally, spreading our message effectively has proven difficult. We are seeking the support of leaders and philanthropists from both Ireland, Europe, and China to help us advance our initiatives, as local assistance is limited. Such challenges were highlighted on Cork’s 96FM Opinion Line.Success is born from struggle and resilience, a truth evident in the lives of figures such as Ambassador Ann Derwin, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Michael McGrath, and President Xi, all of whom inspire Pat and Chang McCarthy. Indeed, resilience and struggle are central to Pat McCarthy’s character. Hailing from the same town and having attended the same school as Ireland’s national hero Michael Collins, Pat is also a cousin of Collins, further tying him to a legacy of perseverance and determination. General Michael Collins, renowned for his role in overcoming the Great British Empire and bringing peace to Ireland, attended the same school as Pat McCarthy. Pat is also a cousin of Collins, highlighting a shared lineage. We are committed to continuing our efforts to strengthen Ireland-China ties through various initiatives, and we greatly appreciate any help or support. We hope more leaders, experts, and influencers will visit these areas to assist us in achieving common prosperity by bridging the urban-rural gap and ensuring equal development and opportunities for all. If you are a person of influence and believe in our vision, please get in touch. We aspire to one day lead a delegation from China to the enchanting town of Clonakilty in West Cork, a place where resilience is not just admired, but born.If this article has negatively affected you, please feel free to share your suggestions
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Braving a Blizzard: Irishman fosters China-Europe ties at CEIBS
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. These efforts align with CEIBS’s mission to serve as a bridge between China and Europe, further enhancing the bond between the two regions. 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. 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. Strengthening relations between China and Europe through rural development projects Introducing European perspectives and innovations into rural Chinese communities Expanding Ireland-China initiatives in education, tourism, trade, and investment Organizing China-to-Cork delegation in 2024 for bilateral agreements
Shenyang Mid-Autumn Festival with Ireland–Sino Institute
As the Mid-Autumn Festival approached, a special celebration event was held in Shenyang. This event, organized by the Information Office of the Liaoning Provincial People’s Government and co-hosted by the Information Office of the Shenyang Municipal People’s Government and the International Online Liaoning Channel, was attended by representatives from the Ireland-Sino Institute, and nationals from five other countries including Germany, the United States, Syria, Yemen, and Iran. https://v2.cri.cn/M00/02/1D/rBABDWUVUaWAFZwGAhiGsp83oTg712.m4v Three Sisters From the U.S. Ireland Sino Institute Delegation To better experience Chinese culture and immerse themselves in the ceremonial atmosphere of the historic Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, foreign attendees donned Hanfu attire. “It feels like we’ve traveled back to ancient China. I absolutely love this outfit, it’s so beautiful,” remarked the three sisters from the USA, as they posed for pictures with their fans. Guided by the pastry chef, the international guests learned how to knead dough, use molds, and started making mooncakes filled with lotus seed paste. “Trying the mooncakes we made for the first time was an amazing experience – they’re really delicious!” exclaimed Qihang, a Yemeni student at China Medical University, speaking fluently in Chinese. His brother, Qifan, also experiencing his first Mid-Autumn Festival in China, expressed his admiration for Chinese culture and his affection for Shenyang, hoping to one day bring their parents to live here. Irish Boy Setanta McCarthy on the Erhu Setanta McCarthy, a sixth-grader originally from West Cork, Ireland, has grown up in China since his early childhood. At a recent event, he skillfully played the erhu, a traditional Chinese two-stringed instrument, captivating the audience with a unique fusion of Irish and Chinese melodies. His performance, blending the distinct musical cultures of his Irish heritage and Chinese upbringing, not only earned him a round of enthusiastic applause from those present but also captured the hearts of a broader national audience. Setanta’s talent in seamlessly merging these diverse musical styles symbolized a beautiful blend of cultural harmony, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed his performance. The atmosphere at the event was lively, and as the evening unfolded, it slowly turned into night. The lights along the Hun River shone brightly, making the Shengjing Grand Theater stand out like a sparkling jewel against the night sky, with its glow reflecting off the river’s waves alongside the luminous full moon. To deepen their experience of the traditional charm of “The Moonlit River Cruise” the international guests embarked on a ferry ride along the Hun River. Shenyang, where the Shen River gleams, City of dreams, of vibrant themes. Skyscrapers tall and history deep, Where past and future seamlessly seep. Its people strong, their spirits bright, Inventive minds take flight each night. In every heart, a proud song rings, Of the joy and hope Shenyang brings. From the palace walls, whispers of the past, To the bustling markets, impressions vast. Shenyang, a city beautifully spun, A tale of unity, of many made one. “Shenyang is my dream city, and I will always treasure this metropolis!” Patrick declared, deeply moved. Foreign guests wear Hanfu, reliving ancient Chinese traditions Mooncake making workshop with international families in Shenyang Cultural Fusion Through Music Hun River night cruise with poetry and scenic views
Shenyang’s Mid-Autumn With Ireland Sino institute
As the Mid-Autumn Festival approached, a special celebration event was held in Shenyang. This event, organized by the Information Office of the Liaoning Provincial People’s Government and co-hosted by the Information Office of the Shenyang Municipal People’s Government and the International Online Liaoning Channel, was attended by representatives from the Ireland Sino Institute.
Irishman Seeks Tánaiste Micheál Martin’s Support
West Cork man battles blizzards to deliver message to Tánaiste, seeking support for organisations such as Ireland-Sino Institute. When Micheál Martin sat down to take questions from an audience at China Europe International Business School, he never expected to meet a man from West Cork. “We made it through blizzards to get here today,” said Pat McCarthy, who made his way to Shanghai from Changtu county in the Liaoning province. He wasn’t joking. Heavy snow blanketed swathes of north-eastern China on Monday, shutting schools in the country’s first substantial snowstorm of the season. Pat had an important message for his fellow Corkonian. He wanted more support from the Irish Government for organisations like his in Northeast China. Pat, originally from Clonakilty, runs the Ireland-Sino Institute, where he has been committed to developmental initiatives since 2012. Pat McCarthy and his wife have dedicated their lives to fostering educational development in rural Liaoning Province, China. Their commitment is so profound that they have invested all their life savings into this noble cause, aiming to enhance learning opportunities for children in this region. He said the two cities the Tánaiste visited during his tour — Shanghai and Beijing — are developed. “There are more underdeveloped areas; growth should be equal,” Mr McCarthy said. Mr Martin agreed and said it was a topic that emerged during his visit to the university, one of Mr Martin’s final events of his four-day stint in China. “It’s great to hear a voice from West Cork,” Mr Martin said. “I’m not surprised a family from West Cork would come through blizzards because West Cork was the key location in the struggle for Irish independence some 100 years ago.” It appeared both men forgot they were in a room full of Chinese students and professors as they discussed the beauty of Ardfield. Martin told the crowd how he spent many summers in the area and said the best swim in Ireland is at Red Strand beach. Wrapping up his visit, Mr Martin said his four-day visit to China was worthwhile politically, culturally, and for building back relations with China. China has certainly given us a message this week that they’re open for business and they want to retain that open global trading framework. West Cork Man Battles Blizzards to Deliver Message Pat McCarthy’s Message and Commitment Call for Equal Growth in Underdeveloped Areas Shared Memories and Political Outcomes
Irish Philanthropy in Education: Ireland Sino Institute
Patrick McCarthy, who made his journey to China in 2012, has been dedicating his skills as an English teacher in Changtu county, Liaoning province. While the allure of a lucrative job in one of China’s bustling metropolises was strong, it was his mother-in-law’s counsel that proved pivotal. Encouraged by her, Patrick and his Chinese wife decided to relinquish promising careers in the Republic of Korea. Patrick and his wife’s journey to Changtu is a story of heartfelt dedication. They founded an English language institution with the noble aim of bridging the linguistic gap for children in Rural Northeast China. This non-profit venture, a true labor of love, was entirely self-funded, as they invested all their life savings into it. Their commitment is not just to education, but to the future of these children, creating a nurturing and enlightening space in a non-profit educational setting. Remarkably, the doors of their training school are open to all – whether they are underprivileged, mentally challenged, or physically disabled.Deeply invested in the realm of education within China, Patrick’s mission has always been clear: leverage his expertise to ensure that students in places like Changtu are not left behind in comparison to their counterparts in larger urban centers. Dedication as an English Teacher Life Decision Influenced by Family Founding an English Language Institution Inclusivity and Clear Mission
Exclusive: China Media Features Ireland Sino Institute
Recently, Shenyang has been strategically positioning itself as a key urban hub in Northeast Asia. The city has gained attention by hosting various international events, including the “Hello, Shenyang” campaign. This initiative has attracted foreign influencers and global media, enhancing Shenyang’s image as an open, vibrant, and modern destination, earning it the nickname “International Shen.” Commencing on September 14, 2023, the Shenyang Municipal Federation of Social Sciences, in collaboration with the International Online Liaoning Channel, initiated the “International Shen, Social Sciences Wisdom” series. This program aims to elevate Shenyang’s global standing and promote its growth as an international city, focusing on enhancing the city’s reputation as “International Shen.” For over a decade, Patrick and his wife have been pivotal figures at the Ireland Sino Institute, immersing themselves in the rural communities of Liaoning and serving as crucial links between China and Ireland. Patrick speaks highly of Shenyang, praising its blend of rich cultural heritage and modern advancements, its embrace of diversity, and its dedication to sustainable development. He believes that Shenyang’s diverse culture is an ideal environment for fostering international relations. After returning to Liaoning, Patrick and his wife established the Ireland Sino Institute, focusing particularly on language education. Their commitment extends to enhancing trade, boosting tourism, and encouraging foreign investment. Patrick actively supports increased interaction between Chinese and Irish communities. He assists Irish companies in expanding their operations in Shenyang, works to bring talent from Ireland and Europe to the area, and promotes Liaoning as top tourist destination. Patrick, who shares a rural background with his wife from Liaoning, has been deeply invested in rural English education for over ten years, driven by their understanding of its importance for children in these areas. He expresses great respect for the Chinese educational system, citing his child’s advanced mathematical abilities as evidence of its effectiveness. According to Patrick, the Chinese education system, particularly in Shenyang, the hub of the Northeast, produces individuals with impressive cultural literacy and educational foundations. He believes these attributes are attractive to European entities looking for skilled learners and professionals. Highlighting Shenyang’s educational ethos, Patrick notes the city’s universal commitment to education across all ages. This dedication not only imparts extensive knowledge but also equips students with practical skills, making the region an appealing destination for Irish business investments. At the Ireland Sino Institute, Patrick and his team work to bridge foreign investment in Liaoning with the educational sector, focusing on vocational skills. Their goal is to showcase these benefits to international investors and open up more investment opportunities. The endeavors of Patrick and his wife have garnered significant support from notable institutions, including the Irish Embassy in China and the EU Chamber of Commerce. Their commendable efforts have also been recognized by authoritative bodies such as the State Council and the People’s Government of Liaoning Province in China. As an Irish native, Patrick is profoundly enchanted by the historical depth and cultural tapestry of Shenyang. “Shenyang’s fusion of historical essence and contemporary vibrancy is mesmerizing. With landmarks like the Shenyang Imperial Palace and Zhaoling Mausoleum, the city offers magnificent portals into the annals of history,” Patrick remarked. He’s particularly taken with the city’s ability to seamlessly blend ancient architectural marvels with cutting-edge urban planning, juxtaposing tradition and innovation, and bestowing Shenyang with a global allure. “While the city’s diverse and delectable culinary scene is undoubtedly a draw, it’s the warmth, unity, and distinct charisma of its residents that truly make Shenyang stand out,” he added. Having been a close observer for over a decade, Patrick has seen Shenyang’s urban metamorphosis unfold. “The strides made in infrastructure, like state-of-the-art high-speed railways and airports, symbolize the city’s unwavering commitment to quality progression.The embrace of 5G technology, the surge in robotics initiatives, and the expansion in IT, AI, and service sectors underscore Shenyang’s pivot towards a diversified and sustainable trajectory, shedding its reliance on heavy industries.”What impresses Patrick the most is the undying vitality of Shenyang’s citizens. “Their zest captures the city’s optimism and tenacious spirit. Amidst its swift urban evolution, Shenyang has masterfully struck a balance between preservation and progression, making it a coveted residential haven,” he noted.Patrick is optimistic about Shenyang’s continued push to bolster its “International Shen” identity, fostering a superior business ecosystem for foreign enterprises in the metropolis. Enhancing trade opportunities between China, Ireland, and international communities Boosting tourism by promoting Liaoning as a top destination Encouraging foreign investment through education, business, and cultural ties Bridging foreign investment in Liaoning with the educational sector