The United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, an extraordinary milestone that invites reflection on American independence and the enduring Irish-American ties.
Nine of the men who signed the Declaration of Independence were of Irish origin. Irish immigrants and their descendants helped build America’s cities, shape its politics and defend its freedoms.
More than 32 million Americans can trace their heritage to Ireland, a reminder that Irish influence remains one of the strongest and most vibrant threads that built the American story.
Thanksgiving, a holiday built around gratitude, offers a moment to appreciate a relationship that is bigger than any one of us – rooted in history, strengthened by families and sustained by shared values.
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Since I presented my credentials at Áras an Uachtaráin on July 1st, I have been travelling across Ireland to visit the impressive operations of American companies, meet Government leaders and engage with Irish business owners who are preparing to expand into the United States.
Everywhere I go I see the modern reality of this relationship. It is a friendship borne of history and culture, but today it is also a dynamic economic and strategic partnership.
Two things have stood out. First, the weather is not nearly as bad as advertised. Second, the famous Irish habit of pessimism even on the sunniest days remains undefeated. When I remark on the sunshine, I can count on hearing: “Just wait, it won’t last.” Ireland, I ask you, let us enjoy the sunshine while we have it. And by every measure, this is a sunny moment for your country.
Ireland’s economy is one of the great success stories of the 21st century. It is supported by full employment, strong public finances, budget surpluses and a thriving multinational sector. Ireland has built a resilient and cutting-edge economic model that continues to attract global investment and talent.
Yes, rapid growth brings challenges, most notably the need for increased housing and continued infrastructure development, but the Irish Government has demonstrated a clear commitment to tackling these priorities. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the high quality of life that makes Ireland such an attractive place for talent and investment.
For decades, Ireland has served as the premier gateway for American companies entering the European single market. They choose Ireland because you have highly skilled workers and there is a stable, English-speaking, common-law base within the European Union. People succeed here because Ireland has created a pro-business environment that works.
This is not a one-way street. Ireland has become one of the most significant investors in the United States – an extraordinary accomplishment. Irish companies have led the way for the next generation of Irish entrepreneurs, who are increasingly looking to the United States as a first step in their path towards internationalisation. Today the total trade and investment between our two countries stands at more than $1 trillion (€860 billion).
The United States is reassessing elements of its foreign policy throughout the world to encourage fair burden-sharing and balanced economic competition. This should not be seen as a retreat from Europe or from Ireland. It is a call for a more mature partnership in which all sides contribute fully to security and prosperity.
The United States sees the EU as a vast market and an essential partner in supporting a stable, fair and open international system. At the same time, when new regulations risk limiting access to markets or disproportionately affecting leading American industries it becomes important to talk openly and constructively.
Ireland, with its deep understanding of both American business culture and the political system in Brussels, is uniquely placed to play the role of interpreter and trusted bridge. Ireland’s future is not to choose between America and Europe, but to help both understand each other and to advance shared interests for decades to come.
As Ireland prepares to assume the EU presidency in 2026, it will be positioned more than ever to serve as a vital transatlantic connector, ensuring that US and European priorities are aligned during a pivotal moment for global co-operation. There’s no better country to play this role.
Relationships between Irish people and Americans continue to grow. From The Open in Co Antrim to the first National Football League game in Dublin and the camaraderie of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, sports diplomacy is the next chapter in our friendship. These events are more than entertainment: they deepen our shared passion for sport, attract visitors on both sides of the Atlantic and showcase Ireland’s world-class hospitality. Together they strengthen our connection for a new generation.
For America’s 250th birthday we will channel this momentum into new initiatives designed to shape the next era of transatlantic co-operation. Last week we launched the America 250 Distinguished Speaker Series at Deerfield residence. Over the coming year we will explore Ireland’s role in America’s founding, the growing significance of sports diplomacy, the shared challenges of technology and infrastructure, and the rapidly expanding flow of Irish investment into the United States. Each event will bring together Irish leaders to spark conversations that inspire new ideas and partnerships.
These conversations will lay the groundwork for a major US-Ireland economic conference in autumn 2026. Senior leaders from the US government and American industry will travel to Dublin to work directly with their Irish counterparts across the political, business and academic spheres to forge practical outcomes that support long-term co-operation.
As we look to the future, the relationship between the United States and Ireland has never been more important. The ties that bind us, forged in history, strengthened by family and energised by a shared economic outlook, are a tremendous asset to both our nations.
Under the leadership of president Donald Trump and with the continued friendship of the Irish people I am confident that this remarkable partnership will continue to flourish for generations to come, leading to a more secure and prosperous future for both countries.
Edward S Walsh is US ambassador to Ireland
