I have the great privilege of being the ambassador while the United States is celebrating our 250th anniversary, providing us a rare opportunity this year to reflect not only on our past, but on the partnerships that continue to shape our future. Few relationships are as enduring, dynamic, and mutually beneficial as that between the US and Ireland.
The story of US independence is, in part, an Irish story. Nine signers of the Declaration of Independence were of Irish origin, including three born on this island. John Dunlap of Co Tyrone printed the first copies of that historic document, while Stephen Moylan, aide-de-camp to George Washington, is credited with the first written use of the phrase “United States of America”. Today, more than 30 million Americans claim Irish heritage.
But the modern US-Ireland partnership is defined not only by shared history, but by shared ambition. What was once primarily a familial and cultural connection has evolved into one of the most significant economic relationships in the world. Trade and investment between our two countries now exceed $1 trillion (€870 billion). Ireland has become a premier gateway for American companies entering the European Single Market, with more than 1,000 US companies employing approximately 245,000 people across the country.
Equally importantly, this is no longer a one-way relationship. Irish companies are now a major force in the US, investing across all 50 states and supporting roughly a quarter of a million American jobs. Ireland ranks as the fifth largest foreign investor in the US, which is an extraordinary achievement that speaks to the growing confidence and global outlook of Irish enterprise.
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I saw this momentum firsthand at the recent SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC. The Irish delegation was the largest from Europe and the fifth largest globally, representing companies from 16 counties and a wide range of sectors – from engineering and construction to medtech, software and artificial intelligence. Their presence was not only impressive – it was a clear signal of Ireland’s growing role as a global investor and innovator.
As we look ahead to 2027 and beyond, initiatives such as SelectUSA will remain vital in strengthening this two-way investment relationship. My priority is to continue working closely with partners such as the American Chamber of Commerce to encourage and support Irish companies seeking to expand in the US, while also championing American companies as trusted partners in Ireland.
Innovation sits at the heart of this partnership. American companies in Ireland have long been drivers of technological advancement, and I have seen this firsthand in visits to facilities across the country, from cutting-edge pharmaceutical plants to world-leading technology hubs. The talent, creativity, and commitment I have encountered among engineers, scientists, and business leaders are remarkable.
Today, we stand at the threshold of another transformation: the rise of artificial intelligence and the broader digital economy. AI is a game changer, with the potential to reshape industries, redefine productivity, and influence every aspect of our societies. While its full impact is still unfolding, one thing is clear: the US and Ireland are well positioned to lead. We will all be stronger together.
‘As my first year as US ambassador to Ireland comes full circle, I am struck by the energy and ambition that define this relationship. The drive of American companies is matched by the determination of Irish enterprises’
— Edward S Walsh, US ambassador
To do so, we must work together to foster environments that support innovation while ensuring security and trust. This includes collaboration on simplifying regulatory approaches and data governance, and promoting digital infrastructure. Cyber and digital diplomacy are no longer niche concerns; they are central to economic competitiveness and national security. The countries that help set the rules for emerging technologies will shape the future of commerce, information and democratic values.
Our co-operation extends beyond economics and technology. The US remains deeply committed to peace and prosperity on the island of Ireland. Through initiatives such as the International Fund for Ireland, to which the US recently pledged an additional $4 million, we reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to supporting communities and fostering opportunity.
Northern Ireland’s economic progress over the past 25 years has been remarkable, with significant growth in employment and investment. US companies have played a key role in this success, contributing to job creation and long-term development. We remain steadfast in our support for a secure and inclusive future in which all communities can share in these gains.
Looking forward, Ireland’s European Council presidency presents an important opportunity to deepen transatlantic co-operation. The US supports efforts to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness by simplifying regulations while maintaining high standards. A dynamic, innovation-friendly Europe benefits not only Ireland and the EU, but also the broader transatlantic partnership.
At the same time, we recognise the importance of addressing global challenges together, from economic security to emerging threats in an increasingly interconnected world. The US values Ireland as a trusted partner in shaping a future that is secure, prosperous and grounded in shared democratic principles.
As my first year as US ambassador to Ireland comes full circle, I am struck by the energy and ambition that define this relationship. The drive of American companies is matched by the determination of Irish enterprises. The spirit of innovation on both sides of the Atlantic is not only complementary, it is mutually reinforcing.
At 250 years, the US is not simply looking back; we are also looking ahead. And in that future, the partnership between the US and Ireland will continue to thrive, fuelling investment, advancing innovation, and strengthening the ties that bind our people together.
