Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has praised the long-standing relationship between Northern Ireland and the United States, focusing on the historical impact of the people of Ulster as St Patrick's Day celebrations begin.

The Minister is currently travelling across the US for a series of high-level engagements designed to promote Northern Ireland's heritage and influence in the lead-up to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the US Declaration of Independence.

Minister Lyons said: "Our links with the US are stronger than ever, through trade, tourism, cultural and educational exchange, and more."

"In this semiquincentennial year we have a special opportunity to tell the story of the remarkable contribution that people from Ulster played in founding the United States and shaping its values."

The itinerary began at Georgia Southern University, where the Minister spoke on the influential role of Ulster-Scots heritage in establishing regional communities and its ongoing cultural legacy in the state of Georgia.

"It will be an honour and privilege to speak so that the voice of Northern Ireland is heard as I address attendees at Georgia Southern University along with my ministerial counterpart from the Republic, Patrick O'Donovan," the Minister continued. "The work that I have been doing to raise awareness of the impact of the Ulster-Scots is bearing fruit and the fact that the institution is hosting a gathering of academic leaders, public officials, and members of the diplomatic and business communities is testament to that. This focus on the Scots-Irish speaks to the growing awareness of, and continuing respect held for, the positive impact made by people of Ulster in that part of the world."

Following his engagements in Georgia, the Minister will travel to Washington, DC. His schedule includes the Northern Ireland Bureau breakfast, the Friends of Ireland Speaker's Luncheon, and a reception at the White House alongside Executive colleagues. He will also co-host a reception in the Senate with the America250 Commission.

Minister Lyons added: "For such a small place, we enjoy disproportionate access to the administration in Washington and we must maximise the opportunity this presents to promote Northern Ireland and our unique history and offering."

"This is why I secured special status for Northern Ireland with the America250 Commission so that we can further deepen and galvanise the natural affinity between our nations as we mark this most special of anniversaries."

The visit will conclude with meetings involving the UK Ambassador to the United States and representatives from Historic Royal Palaces. The Minister is also scheduled to visit the National Archives and the Library of Congress accompanied by James Applegate, Northern Ireland's US Consul General.

"I look forward to building on established connections, and making new ones, during my visit and telling the story of Northern Ireland's powerful and unique contribution, and our continuing mutually beneficial relationship with the US," the Minister concluded.