On Tuesday night, the highly anticipated arrival of the United States President Joe Biden in Northern Ireland marked the commencement of his historic four-day trip to the island of Ireland. This much-awaited visit has been long-awaited by the public and is set to be a landmark event in the history of the region.
Meeting with Rishi Sunak
Before President Biden delivers his highly anticipated speech at Ulster University’s new Belfast campus, he will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Belfast on Wednesday. This will be an opportunity for the leaders to discuss key issues and engage in productive dialogue. Additionally, the leaders of Northern Ireland’s main political parties will also have the opportunity to engage with President Biden, ensuring that this historic visit leaves a lasting impact on the region.
Heightened Security and Itinerary
The visit of the United States President is not without its challenges, and a major security operation will be in place, with more than 300 officers being drafted from the rest of the UK to Northern Ireland. The PSNI has warned of significant traffic disruption in Belfast during the presidential visit. Despite this, President Biden will also travel to the Republic of Ireland, where he will carry out a number of engagements, including a speech in Dublin as well as visits to ancestral homelands. Notably, he is expected to visit Irish President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
Peace as Top Priority
Undoubtedly, President Biden’s top priority is to “make sure the Irish accords and the Windsor Agreement stay in place, keep the peace”, he said before his departure. A crucial task that will require engaging with key stakeholders and ensuring that lasting peace is maintained in the region. President Biden’s son, Hunter Biden, and sister, Valerie Biden Owen, are believed to be accompanying him on this historic visit.
A Rich and Eventful Trip
While Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will not attend President Biden’s keynote speech, Downing Street has denied that the engagement between the two will be “low-key”. This is just one of many events in what is a rich and eventful trip. The visit of the US President will conclude with a visit to Co Mayo, where he will tour the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Knock and visit the North Mayo Heritage and Genealogical Centre’s family history research unit. Finally, he will make a public speech at St Muredach’s Cathedral in Ballina.
Conclusion
President Biden’s historic visit is a crucial moment for the region and is set to be a landmark event in the history of the island of Ireland. As the President engages with key stakeholders and emphasizes the importance of maintaining lasting peace, this visit is sure to leave a lasting impact on the region. Despite the challenges that come with heightened security and a packed itinerary, President Biden’s visit is a testament to the importance of continued engagement and dialogue between nations.
