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Tánaiste travels to London for St Patrick's Day programme

Tánaiste and Finance Minister Simon Harris speaking during a St. Patrick's Day political reception at the Embassy of Ireland in Paris
Tánaiste Simon Harris will take part in London's St Patrick's Day parade

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris will travel to London as part of his St Patrick's Day programme.

It follows the Tánaiste's visit to Paris earlier this week, where he met the French finance minister.

In London, Mr Harris will meet UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy.

He will take part in the city's St Patrick's Day parade later and meet Irish community leaders.

Mr Harris will also address business executives at a British Irish Chamber of Commerce event tomorrow.

The Tánaiste will then hold bilateral meetings with Ms Reeves and Mr Lammy.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Harris said he welcomed the opportunity.

"Across Britain, hundreds of thousands of people claim Irish heritage. Our families, culture and economies are deeply intertwined," he said.

"The St Patrick's Day festival provides an opportunity to connect and celebrate a shared heritage," he added.

Mr Harris said he was also looking forward to meeting UK companies to "discuss our strong economic ties and our shared challenges and opportunities".

"In the context of our unique relationship with the UK, and at this time of global uncertainty, it is essential that we continue to foster close relationships with our nearest neighbour," he added.