Northern Ireland will have a special role in the 250th anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced. This unique status was secured through discussions with America250 officials in Washington DC, underpinned by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Minister Lyons confirmed the agreement following productive meetings with America250 Chair Rosie Rios, Commissioner Joe Crowley, and Interim Executive Director Jen Condon. "I am pleased to have secured this agreement and to announce that Northern Ireland will have special status next June during a major international event and celebration," he said.

The MOU aims to celebrate the historic connections between Northern Ireland and the United States, particularly highlighting the significant role of the Ulster-Scots in shaping American history. "The Memorandum of Understanding reflects a shared vision to celebrate our historic connections and underscores the vital role the Ulster-Scots played in shaping America," Minister Lyons added. The MOU, to be developed in the coming months, will establish a framework for cooperation, including cultural exchanges, educational programmes, and events in both Northern Ireland and the United States, as part of the America250 initiative.

Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. "As we prepare for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we recognize the deep and lasting ties between the United States and Northern Ireland," she said. "I'm excited to invite Northern Ireland to participate in our celebrations next year, recognizing our shared history and the invaluable contributions of those with Northern Irish heritage to America's story. I look forward to working together to create meaningful moments of reflection and connection as we mark this historic milestone."

Minister Lyons emphasised that the partnership is about more than just historical recognition. "This is about more than history – it is about building a legacy of connection and opportunity," he said. "I look forward to seeing this partnership come to life over the next year and beyond."

The meetings with America250, the Congressional Commission planning the anniversary celebrations, are part of a series of ministerial meetings in Washington aimed at further promoting the heritage connections between Northern Ireland and the United States.