Singapore: National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway's Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials signs memorandum of understanding (MoU) with two Chinese research bodies, including the Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biotechnology and Medicine (TJAB) and China Nucleon Medical Technology Group (CNPK). Dr Jim Browne, president, NUI Galway, was present in Beijing for the signing of the major biomedical research deal.

The agreement will help bring about a mutually beneficial relationship that is expected to facilitate the exchange of researchers and academic information as well as the development of collaborative research projects.

Several eminent individuals were present during the the signing, including Dr James Reilly, minister for health, who reached Beijing after accepting an invitation by Mr Chen Zhu, minister of health, China, to speak at a major conference. Dr Reilly also took the opportunity to sign a renewed MoU between Ireland and China on cooperation in the health sector.

Mr Eamon Gilmore, Tánaiste, Ireland, while commenting on the visit said that, "Coming after the February visit of the Chinese vice president, Mr Xi Jinping to Ireland and the visit of the Taoiseach to China in March, minister Reilly's visit will be an opportunity to add further impetus to the development of the broad bilateral relationship between China and Ireland, specifically in the health sector."