Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore is currently in China on a four-day visit where he will meet senior members of the ruling Communist Party.

It is seen as a means of attracting Chinese investment into Ireland at a time when China has become a major player on the global stage, investing heavily in Africa, Latin America and other parts of the globe.

In all, China is estimated to have invested over €50 billion in projects abroad. However this is considered to be a very conservative estimate with investment in Africa alone believed to be closer to the €100 billion mark. Indeed the trade between China and Latin America is in the region of €190 billion.

China is Africa's largest trading partner, gaining access to the continent's rich mineral and natural resources.

The Chinese heirarchy reportedly also see Mexico as a gateway to the North American market.

Meanwhile trade between Ireland and the world's second largest economy is worth over €7billion.

Here is a Global Investment Tracker map by the Heritage Foundation of areas countries where China is investing heavily. In relative terms Africa and South America is receiving plenty of attention.

For more information about the contents of the map, visit the Heritage Foundation website for a detailed tracker.