A Visit from Taoiseach Simon Harris

On October 14, Georgetown University students were honored to hear from Taoiseach Simon Harris, T.D. , who joined them in the historic Riggs Library for a wide-ranging conversation.

The Taoiseach traveled to DC to mark 100 years of Irish-US diplomatic relations, and his remarks at Georgetown highlighted shared values, economic ties, and a commitment to peace. He also spoke candidly about the conflict in the Middle East, noting that Ireland’s recognition this year of a Palestinian state mirrored the US’s recognition of Ireland 100 years ago, and that “Ireland will always be honest with friends” when it comes to promoting peace.

Following his remarks and a conversation moderated by Prof. Cóilín Parsons, students asked the Taoiseach about a variety of issues, ranging from Ireland’s relationship with China, and the US’s continued role in Northern Ireland, to the suspension of the Mitchell scholarships, which provide funding for US students to study in Ireland.

Wrapping up the conversation, the Taoiseach spoke warmly about the next century of US-Irish relations: “As we look to the next 100 years and beyond, I am excited about the potential to continue our work together on the international stage to promote global prosperity and stability, and our common values of peace, freedom, democracy and the rule of law.”

Our co-host for the event was the BMW Center for German and European Studies. Read more about the visit in a news article from the BMW Center and a report in The Hoya .