At a jointly hosted event with the America250 Commission in Washington, DC, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said Ulster-Scots values remain influential and announced a summer programme across Northern Ireland to mark 250 years since the Declaration of Independence.

Around 200 guests from politics, business and cultural life gathered to recognise the role of people of Ulster-Scots heritage in the signing of the US Declaration of Independence.

Addressing attendees, the Minister said: "The signing of the Declaration of Independence was both a defining moment in American history and an important chapter in the long relationship between Ulster and the United States. From its earliest days America has been shaped by people who crossed oceans in search of new opportunities – including thousands from the shores of Ulster.

"The values they brought with them – religious faith and moral discipline, respect for education, and a deep belief in hard work and perseverance – endure to this day.

"Several signatories of the Declaration had family roots in Ulster, and the first edition was printed by an Ulsterman for the American people and audiences around the world. Indeed 17 US Presidents can trace their family heritage to the Ulster-Scots.

"Today, more than 25million Americans proudly identify with Scots Irish or Ulster-Scots heritage.

"This relationship continues to evolve – through trade and investment, creative industries, tourism, education, cultural exchange and through family connections."

The Minister also unveiled a programme of events to take place across Northern Ireland, funded through his USA-NI250 programme. He said: "I am delighted to be funding a series of special events across Northern Ireland this summer that will promote our history, heritage, arts sector and tourism offering in the context of America250.

"Concerts, exhibitions, cultural displays, theatre productions and immersive visitor experiences will tell the many stories and commemorate the deep historic connections that exist as we approach the semiquincentennial of the US Declaration of Independence.

"I would love to see our US friends come to Northern Ireland, experience some of these events and take the opportunity to trace their histories in the fascinating archives of the Public Record Office in Belfast."

Senator Shelley Moore Capito, who sponsored the event, said: "The friendship between the United States and Northern Ireland is rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a long-standing commitment to peace and prosperity.

"I'm deeply grateful to gather at the reception to celebrate that enduring bond, and to honour the partnerships that continue to strengthen our future together."

Jen Condon, Executive Vice President of the America250 Commission, said: "As we approach America's 250th anniversary, it's especially meaningful to celebrate the enduring friendship between the United States and Northern Ireland.

"Our nations share deep historical ties and values that continue to shape our communities today. Gatherings like this remind us that the story of America has always been connected to the people and traditions that crossed the Atlantic and helped build our country."

For more information on the USA-NI250 programme and the events it is supporting, visit www.usa-ni250.co.uk