MINISTER of State Peter Burke and Ireland’s Ambassador to Japan, Paul Kavanagh, met with senior Japan Racing Association [JRA] officials this week to discuss how to strengthen ties between the racing and breeding industries in both countries.

Fine Gael TD for Longford-Westmeath and a keen supporter of racing, Burke is on a St Patrick’s Day trade mission to Japan and South Korea.

In Japan he met with local breeder Harry Sweeney and, with Ambassador Burke, visited the Miho Training Centre.

Speaking from Japan, the Minister of State for Planning and Local Government said: “I led a very engaging bilateral with the President of the JRA, Masayuki Goto. We discussed potential for more Japanese horses to come and compete in Ireland, especially for Champions Weekend which would be very beneficial for Ireland. The experience of Deirdre finishing fourth in the Irish Champion Stakes can provide a strong catalyst for more Japanese runners on Irish soil.

“The president previously met Aidan O’Brien, who sent Broome and Japan to the last running of the Japan Cup, and is eager to progress initiatives of mutual benefit for both our countries.

“I also invited the president over to Ireland again and I know he’s interested in coming with a delegation to the Irish Derby.”