“The eyes of the world are fixed on the United States, underscoring the importance of the outcome of this election. Regardless of who becomes the 47th President, what matters locally is fostering a positive relationship that benefits Northern Ireland.
Boycotts by some and insults by others directed at previous Presidents have done little to advance our interests in the White House. We should focus instead on how we can work with the incoming administration to promote economic opportunities. Moreover, with seventeen American Presidents widely recognised as having Ulster-Scots ancestry, we must continue to build upon the strong cultural ties between us.
For this reason, our DUP Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons, spent time in the United States only last month, promoting various opportunities for collaboration between Northern Ireland and the US. This is work we will continue.
I wish the new President well, and I trust they will be granted the wisdom and grace to lead during what is a challenging time not only for America but also for the world.”