Harris and Biden to mark US-Irish diplomatic relations

Taoiseach Simon Harris will meet with US President Joe Biden in Washington to mark the centenary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the United States.

The two leaders are expected to discuss global issues, such as the situation in the Middle East and Ukraine.

Speaking ahead of the meeting Mr Harris said: "President Biden and I will reflect on where the US and Ireland can do more to work together, based on shared values, to tackle the many challenges we face, including the desperate situation in Gaza and the wider Middle East.

"We urgently need to see a return to a diplomatic and political path aimed at facilitating durable solutions that can bring peace and security to all the people of the region."

He also said the relationship between Ireland and the United States has been "renewed and strengthened with each generation".

Mr Harris thanked the US for its "commitment to peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland".

Mr Biden yesterday postponed a later reception in the Rose Garden at the White House due to Hurricane Milton, a category five storm due to hit in Florida.

The hurricane is expected to make landfall at about the same time the reception was due to be held. He formally invited the Taoiseach to visit Washington during the UN General Assembly in New York.

The United States was the first country to recognise the Irish Free State in 1924.

Mr Harris will also attend a special event at Georgetown University which will also mark 100 years of Irish-US diplomatic relations.

He will also have other political engagements, including with the Friends of Ireland Caucus and USAID Administrator Samantha Power.