FMDFM Attend St Patrick's Day Reception At The White House

Northern Ireland's First and Deputy First Minister have met with United States President, Joe Biden, at a St Patrick's Day reception at the White House.

Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly used the opportunity to highlight the benefits of the unique relationship between the U.S. and Northern Ireland.

Speaking after the meeting, Michelle O'Neill said: "Our decision to travel to the U.S. at the earliest opportunity was to seek out investors and companies and showcase everything Northern Ireland has to offer.

"Both Emma and I have had a very positive experience, meeting business leaders from a wide range of sectors who were left with a clear understanding of why they should invest in the north.

"We also impressed upon President Biden that we appreciate his continued support, including the work taken forward by the Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III.

"Over the coming months we will continue to build on the connections we have made in the United States in order to grow our economy for the betterment of our citizens." Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "We had a really positive meeting with President Biden and discussed the importance of our relationship and U.S. investment when it comes to securing a thriving, brighter future for everyone.

"Throughout our engagements this week, we have been promoting Northern Ireland as a great place to live, visit and invest in.

"We are a global leader in sectors such as cyber security, RegTech, FinTech, advanced manufacturing and health sciences with a young, skilled and dedicated workforce. I am confident those influential decision makers we have met with have been very impressed by what they have heard.

"This week has also been key in extending our network and relationships within the U.S., demonstrating that we are open for business and committed to building stability and prosperity through investment."

During their five-day visit, the Ministers attended a series of events including: the Ireland Funds Gala; the NI Bureau breakfast, visits to the Irish and British Ambassadors' residences; a roundtable discussion with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and business leaders: a fireside chat at Georgetown University; a meeting with James O'Brien, Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, U.S. State Department and a Speaker's Luncheon in the U.S. Capitol with Speaker Mike Johnson and President Joe Biden.