President Biden praised the close friendship between the U.S. and Ireland as he celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at the White House with Irish Prime Minister Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
Biden highlighted the strong connection between Irish Americans and the American people, as well as the bond between the two nations, which has influenced the past, strengthened the present, and inspired the future.
Biden talked about his family's connections to Ireland and recent trip to Belfast, and mentioned how both his and former President Obama's ancestors left Ireland from the same port within a few weeks of each other.
Biden shared stories of Irish optimism and emphasized the deep bonds between Ireland and the United States, acknowledging that both nations hold on to hope in difficult times.
Varadkar spoke briefly after Biden, praising America’s leadership and previous work in Europe.
Varadkar stated to Biden that he has always believed in the positive impact of America in the world, particularly in promoting liberty and democracy globally. Varadkar thanked Biden for his support of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and the Good Friday Agreement, which established a new government for Northern Ireland and helped end 30 years of conflict in the region. The two leaders also discussed other global conflicts and demonstrated unity in supporting Ukraine’s resistance against Russia.
Biden emphasized the solidarity between the two countries against Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine, encouraging applause from the audience.
Varadkar commended Biden for defending the principles of democracy and freedom against tyranny and oppression, especially in response to Ukraine’s situation.
Varadkar warned that a Ukrainian loss would pose a greater threat from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Varadkar expressed support for a cease-fire between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages, and both leaders agreed on working towards a two-state solution for peace in the region.
Varadkar also restated his call for a cease-fire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas to allow food and medicine into Gaza and see the release of the hostages. Both he and Biden discussed the issue in detail last Friday.
Where they both agreed. on working towards a two-state solution to ensure peace in the region. President Biden noted the strong friendship between the US and Ireland as they celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at the White House alongside Irish Prime Minister Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, emphasizing the bonds of friendship between millions of Irish Americans and the American people.
