Two hundred fifty years ago, the United States declared independence. For Ireland, this milestone is part of our shared history. From the start, Irish men and women embraced the ideals of that Declaration. This belief remains strong today. Ireland’s own pursuit of freedom drew inspiration from the American Declaration of Independence.
The Irish republican leader Robert Emmet aspired to secure for Ireland the same assurance Washington achieved for America. The 1916 Proclamation acknowledged the support from Ireland’s “exiled children in America.” In more recent times, the U.S. played a key role in fostering peace and reconciliation in Ireland. The Good Friday Agreement, which concluded thirty years of conflict in Northern Ireland, is a testament to our joint history. American involvement was bipartisan and essential.
Today, Ireland and the U.S. enjoy a dynamic relationship—economically, culturally, and politically. Ireland ranks as the fifth largest foreign investor in the U.S. Irish companies have created over 200,000 American jobs across various sectors and states. The U.S.-Ireland economic bond is crucial in driving technologies defining our future. From advanced manufacturing and pharmaceuticals to technology, aviation leasing, and renewable energy, Irish enterprises propel American progression.
Through substantial investments and robust partnerships, Irish companies enhance U.S. competitiveness in AI, advanced manufacturing, and future data infrastructure. Last March, a visit to Philadelphia, often seen as America’s birthplace, prompted reflection in Independence Hall on nation-shaping ideas formed there. Both our nations have traveled far, facing adversity and pursuing opportunity. Even in a tumultuous world, we confront challenges alongside strong partnerships, striving for a more peaceful world.
Ireland values its partnership with the U.S. and the EU in standing up for our shared values. As of July 1, Ireland holds the EU Presidency. We believe the U.S.-EU relationship is a global force for good, with daily transatlantic trade exceeding $4.5 billion in goods and services. Ireland will closely collaborate with the U.S. and EU partners to strengthen this critical relationship.
Economic prosperity enables EU success, but competitiveness on a global scale requires improvement. Ireland’s pro-enterprise culture and presidency will drive European competitiveness by simplifying regulations for businesses and citizens. At the core of our EU Presidency lies an ancient Irish proverb translating to “there is no strength without unity,” reflecting both Ireland’s and America’s spirit over the past 250 years.
Ireland today is a confident, innovative, and outward-looking European nation. We value EU membership, global partnerships, and friendship with the U.S. Strong partnerships measure trust and shared purpose, enduring differences. On this Fourth of July, as America marks 250 years, we reflect on the Great Seal phrase attributed to Irishman Charles Thompson: “E pluribus unum” — “out of many, one.” This principle helped build a nation and will guide our future partnership.
Michael Martin is prime minister of the Republic of Ireland.