President Biden on Sunday touted what he called the “strong” friendship between the United States and Ireland while celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at the White House with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar.
“Today we celebrate the bonds of friendship that connect millions of Irish Americans and the American people. We celebrate the friendship between our two countries. It strengthened our present and inspired our future,” Biden said Sunday in remarks at the White House St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
In his speech, Biden reflected on his family’s ties to Ireland, his recent visit to Belfast, and how some of Biden’s and former President Barack Obama’s ancestors left Ireland through the same port within weeks of each other.
“It’s because of stories like this that I often say that only the Irish are nostalgic for the future,” he says. “We believe in a better tomorrow and are always looking for the next horizon. It’s a trade that’s also very American. The ties between Ireland and the United States run deep and we share our joys, sorrows, passions and dreams. , further proof of optimism. Even in the most difficult moments, we remain hopeful. That’s what we do.”
Mr Varadkar gave a short speech after Mr Biden on Sunday, praising US leadership and previous work in Europe.
“I’ve always believed that America is a force for good in the world. You’ve helped advance freedom and democracy around the world,” he told Biden, later calling the shots in Ireland and Northern Ireland. , thanked Ireland for its support. good friday agreementestablished a new government in Northern Ireland and helped end 30 years of conflict in the region.
The two leaders also touched on other global conflicts, offering a united front in support of the fight between Ukraine and Russia.
“Our nation proudly defends freedom and opposes tyranny. We stand united in opposing Russia’s brutal war of aggression in Ukraine,” Biden said. “It’s fine if you applaud,” he said as the audience applauded.
Mr Varadkar told Mr Biden: “One of your nation’s most sacred promises is to protect the principles of democracy and freedom from tyranny and oppression.”
“When Ukraine was invaded, you kept that promise and stood firm against an enemy who broke the rulebook of international law and denied our sacred humanity. Therefore, Ireland and the wider On behalf of the European Community, we commend your leadership and reaffirm that Europe will stand with you and Ukraine for as long as necessary.”
Mr Varadkar warned that a defeat in Ukraine would lead to further threats from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Mr Varadkar also reiterated his call for a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, allowing food and medicine to flow into Gaza and for the release of hostages. He and Biden discussed the issue at length last Friday and agreed to work towards a two-state solution to ensure peace in the region.
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