Under the invitation of Irish CountrtyWomen's Association (ICA), the Chinese Women Delegation headed by Mme. Peng Peiyun, Vice-Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the NPC and President of ACWF visited Ireland from October 9 to 15, 2001. The delegation was met by high-level and warm reception. Mr. Seammus Pattison, Chairman of Dail Eireann (the Parliament), hosted a banquet for the delegation in the parliament building; and Tanaiste Mary Harney (Deputy Prime Minister) met the delegation. The delegation also met with Mrs. Mary Wallace, State Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, as well as some local officials in the counties of Cork, Kilkenny, Leitrim, etc.. The delegation visited some of the activities carried out by ICA local federations or guilds, and the Adult Education College and the Horticulture College in An Gaianan which are affiliated to ICA. Wherever the delegation went, they were always met with warmth and true friendship the Irish government and people feel towards China, which indicates the increase and deepening of exchanges and cooperation between China and Ireland. The visit helps to strengthen friendship and understanding between people and women of the two countries, and the long-standing friendship and contacts between All-China Women's Federation and Irish Country Women's Association. Furthermore through the visit we have also learnt about the policies and measures to improve women's participation in social and economic development in Ireland, many of which are quite helpful to our work at home.