merrion street

Taoiseach Enda Kenny today begins his St Patrick's Day engagements in Washington.

On the first day of his St Patrick's Day visit to Washington, the Taoiseach will focus on Ireland's trade, business and cultural links with the United States.

This morning, the Taoiseach meets with members of the Global Irish Network and his Economic Advisory Board. He will then address a Business Leaders Lunch in Washington, where he will focus on the new Government's plan for economic recovery and the importance of international trade and investment for Ireland.

He will also hold economic discussions with the US Treasury Secretary, Timothy Geithner.

The Taoiseach will offer his support to Irish artists who are performing in Washington, DC as part of the

year of culture in the US, including those who have been invited to perform for the President on St Patrick's Day.

This evening, he will given an address to the American Ireland Fund National Gala, which will concentrate on the new Government's commitment to the relationship between Ireland and America. He is also expected to meet with members of the Northern Ireland Executive to speak about the new Government's support for the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement.