Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed his expectation of being invited to the White House to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, where he will address “a broad range of issues” with US President Donald Trump.
“It’s a time-honoured tradition that we truly value,” Mr Martin stated.
“President Trump, during his previous term, upheld this tradition.
“Ireland and President Trump had a productive relationship during that time, and we aim for constructive engagement moving forward,” he remarked.
“The priority must be on achieving a ceasefire, confirming the second phase of the ceasefire, ensuring the release of all hostages, and facilitating a significant influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza,” he elaborated.
“It is indeed hell on Earth, without question. However, the immediate aim should be to deliver aid and support to the Palestinian people in Gaza and to reduce the levels of conflict and violence in the region as a whole.”
He also noted that various topics will be on the agenda for their meeting.
“The economic ties between Europe and the US, as well as between Ireland and the US, are critically important,” Mr Martin emphasized.
“Trade between the EU and the US is the largest globally. We have a robust presence in America.
“Irish companies have generated approximately 100,000 jobs in the US, and we export extensively to America. Additionally, numerous US multinationals employ around 200,000 people in Ireland.
“Thus, there exists a strong economic connection along with a vibrant cultural relationship, familial ties, and a significant diaspora. All these matters will be discussed during our conversations with the President,” he concluded.
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Earlier, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris mentioned that the Taoiseach has been invited to the White House by the sitting US president on an “annual basis” for many years, and he “would expect it to happen again” this year.
This comes as Mr Trump has threatened several nations with tariffs and enacted sanctions against the International Criminal Court – a move denounced by nearly 80 countries, including Ireland.
Despite persistent diplomatic tensions, Mr Harris expressed his belief that the invitation would be extended and the visit would take place.
While appearing on RTÉ’s Today with Claire Byrne, the Tánaiste confirmed his intention to travel to the US concurrently with the anticipated White House visit by the Taoiseach, but noted he would be visiting a “different location.”
Mr Harris mentioned that he had reached out to his US counterpart, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, “to congratulate him on his appointment.”
Calls from members of the Opposition have emerged, urging the Government to boycott the annual St Patrick’s Day visit to the White House.
People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy remarked: “No Irish politician should go to Washington to meet Donald Trump or his administration on St Patrick’s Day.
“To do so would provide political cover for a US regime that is intent on inflicting even more barbaric treatment on the 2 million people of Gaza.
