From the Office of Speaker Nancy Pelosi:
Dublin — Speaker Nancy Pelosi and a high-level congressional delegation has concluded a two-day visit to Dublin. Earlier today, Speaker Pelosi addressed the Irish Parliament. Speaker Pelosi released the following statement:
“Our delegation has been deeply honored by the extraordinary welcome we have received in Ireland.
“Yesterday, we were warmly received by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for a vital discussion on security issues, deepening U.S.-Ireland partnerships, the challenges posed by Brexit to the Good Friday Accords, technology and the need for both our nations to act more boldly to confront the climate crisis.
“With Tánaiste Simon Coveney, we affirmed the importance of the friendship between the U.S. and Ireland, new opportunities for multilateral engagement, and the need for continued partnership through Brexit and other challenges.
“We concluded our first day with a beautiful celebration of Irish history, culture and art at the General Post Office. We saw the stirring story of the Easter Rising and the vitality of Irish traditions being carried into the future.
“Today, I was privileged to receive the rare honor of delivering an address at the Oireachtas, the Irish parliament, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first Dáil.
“Our day also included a productive conversation with the Minister of Finance Paschal Donohoe, which focused on economic security and the shared prosperity built by American and Irish businesses. Our delegation met with thought leaders on Brexit and leaders and representatives from Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil, hearing diverse perspectives on the future of Ireland.
“A highlight of our visit was an inspiring meeting with President Michael Higgins, who challenged us to have the creativity to imagine a new future. He spoke beautifully of the imperative we have to address the climate crisis with sustainability and global responsibility.
“Finally, our delegation was honored to be hosted by Taoiseach Varadkar for a dinner celebration at Dublin Castle honoring the relationship between Ireland and the United States, where we ended our visit listening to the beautiful music of Ireland.”
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