The meeting was part of a broader series of events marking the centenary of Irish-US diplomatic relations.

In addition to discussing the Middle East, Harris and Biden addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, legacy issues in Northern Ireland, and the evolving relationship between the UK and Ireland. They also touched on the approaching hurricane impacting Florida.

The meeting was a key event in a series of engagements in Washington, DC, celebrating 100 years since the US became the first country to recognize the Irish Free State in 1924. Harris’s visit also includes several political and cultural activities.

On Wednesday, Harris met with USAID administrator Samantha Power, who has Irish roots, and attended an event at the US Chamber of Commerce. He is set to speak at a special event at Georgetown University on Thursday.

Harris is also scheduled to meet with the US Congress’s Friends of Ireland caucus and Northern Ireland economic envoy Joe Kennedy III.

However, the visit’s schedule was scaled back due to the approaching hurricane, leading to the postponement of a planned reception at the Rose Garden.

Harris assured that Ireland’s consulate in Miami is prepared to assist Irish citizens affected by the storm. “Our thoughts are with all those in the path of the hurricane, which could make landfall later today,” he said.



President Biden, known for his strong connection to his Irish heritage, was warmly received in Ireland during his 2023 visit, where he traced his ancestral roots in Co Louth and Co Mayo and received a standing ovation when addressing the Dáil.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to be on the campaign trail during the Taoiseach’s visit.