Washington, March 18 (NationPress) President Donald Trump commemorated the profound connections between the US and Ireland at the White House, welcoming Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin for the yearly Shamrock ceremony. During this event, the leaders emphasized their shared history, cultural heritage, and partnership.

“It’s truly a pleasure to be with you,” Trump remarked in a bustling East Room, referring to the occasion as “an extraordinary demonstration of friendship between Ireland and the remarkable nation we call the United States.”

The Saint Patrick’s Day celebration brought together top US officials, legislators, and Irish representatives, showcasing the lasting cultural and political ties between the two countries.

Trump underscored the vitality of the Irish-American community. “It’s often said that we have five times as many Irish in our beautiful country than you have on your amazing island,” he noted, adding, “They hold you in great affection.”

He portrayed Irish-Americans as pivotal to the nation’s achievements. “As a group, I would argue that no one has attained more success than those from Ireland,” he stated.

In his address, Trump acknowledged the historical contributions of Irish immigrants to the United States, recognizing their influence in shaping the nation’s identity and institutions. “From the very start, America has flourished and succeeded with the support of incredible individuals,” he remarked.

He asserted that Irish-Americans have made significant contributions across various sectors, referring to them as “fighters and thinkers and doers and achievers.”

In his speech, Martin reaffirmed the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations. He described the ceremony as representing “a friendship between our peoples that predates our republics.”

He highlighted Ireland’s contributions during the formative years of the United States. “More than a quarter of Washington’s Continental Army were Irish,” Martin stated, adding that Irish figures were instrumental in shaping the young republic.

Martin pointed out that Irish individuals have played vital roles in establishing key American institutions. He remarked that Irish-born figures were involved in creating national symbols and even in shaping the very language of the United States.

“Even the term… United States of America was initially penned by an Irishman,” he noted.

He also emphasized the significant Irish influence in the US today, indicating that millions of Americans trace their roots back to Ireland. “Irish individuals were present at the inception, and they continue to be a significant source of pride and inspiration for the 35 million Americans of Irish descent,” he stated.

The Taoiseach described the bilateral relationship as both enduring and foundational. “We are intertwined in each other’s DNA,” he said, characterizing it as “deep and lasting” and affirming that it “will always hold a special place.”

Martin further stressed the need for ongoing collaboration between the two nations. “Let’s continue to work together… to create a better world, one that is free, secure, and peaceful,” he urged.

The Shamrock ceremony, a long-standing tradition, epitomizes the close diplomatic and cultural connections between the United States and Ireland. It occurs annually around Saint Patrick’s Day, with the Irish leader presenting a bowl of shamrock to the President of the US.

The United States and Ireland maintain robust political, economic, and cultural relations, strengthened by a large Irish-American demographic and decades of collaboration across trade, investment, and global issues.