Joe Biden to visit Ireland in April to mark progress since Good Friday Agreement – but he’s skipping Coronation
JOE Biden will visit Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland next week, the White House has confirmed.
The US president will “mark the tremendous progress since the signing of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement 25 years ago” from April 11 to 14.
High-tech vehicles to protect Biden have already been flown into Belfast ahead of the trip.
Two long-range US Air Force cargo planes touched down at RAF Aldergrove with the cars on board yesterday.
Mr Biden, who often speaks with pride of his Irish roots, is set to arrive in Belfast on Tuesday before travelling to Dublin, Louth and Mayo.
It is understood he may meet King Charles while in Northern Ireland on Wednesday.
Press secretary Karine Jean Pierre said: “President Biden will first travel to Belfast, Northern Ireland, from April 11 to 12 to mark the tremendous progress since the signing of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement 25 years ago and to underscore the readiness of the United States to support Northern Ireland’s vast economic potential to the benefit of all communities.
“The President will then travel to Ireland from April 12 to 14.
“He will discuss our close co-operation on the full range of shared global challenges.
“He will also hold various engagements, including in Dublin, County Louth and County Mayo, where he will deliver an address to celebrate the deep, historic ties that link our countries and people.”
During the five-day tour, he will be joined by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and potentially his wife Jill.
While he’s jetting over for the Irish visit, Mr Biden will skip the King’s Coronation of May 6.
A spokesperson said: “President Joe Biden spoke today with King Charles III underscoring the strength of the relationship between our countries and the friendship between our peoples.
“The President congratulated the King on his upcoming Coronation and informed him that First Lady Jill Biden looks forward to attending on behalf of the United States.
“The President also conveyed his desire to meet with the King in the United Kingdom at a future date.”
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