A high-ranking Chinese stateswoman has hailed her visit to Belfast as proof of China's commitment to forging a positive relationship with Northern Ireland.

Madame Liu Yandong, the most senior female politician in the ruling Communist Party in China, said she selected the region as the first stop on a tour of Europe.

On the second day of her visit she was welcomed at Belfast's two universities.

At the University of Ulster at Jordanstown, Madame Liu opened the new Confucius Institute - a centre aimed at developing language and cultural links with China.

Then at Queen's University in Belfast she heard of its plan to establish a college in China and witnessed the signing of collaborative agreements with Peking University and the Chinese Scholarship Council.

"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level between China and the United Kingdom," Madame Liu said in her address at the Confucius Institute.

"Over the past four decades, UK-China relations have been moving forward in great depth. We have established a comprehensive strategic partnership, and enjoy all round co-operation.

"I chose Northern Ireland as the first stop of my visit to the EU in order to fully demonstrate China's commitment to Northern Ireland."

Northern Ireland's First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness attended the colourful opening ceremony at the University of Ulster.

"We want to build closer relationships with the government and people of China and the Confucius Institute will assist us greatly by enabling us to learn more through cultural and academic exchanges and research," said Mr Robinson.