There was an awkward moment in the Oval Office on Thursday, as US President Donald Trump spoke of his love for the UK.
"I have investments there. I own Turnberry, I have Aberdeen, and I own a great place, Doonbeg, in Ireland. So, you know, I have a great warm spot for your country," he said.
Whether or not Donald Trump was confused about the Co Clare golf resort being in or out of the UK, it was obvious that he has a great fondness for it.
Eight years ago, as Irish officials prepared for Enda Kenny's first visit to the new Trump White House, great efforts were undertaken to ensure it was a successful meeting.
"Start with Doonbeg", was the conclusion they came to.
A similar tactic was deployed by Downing Street on Thursday too, as they pulled out the "Trump" card that no other country can, an invitation for a second state visit from the King.
As Prime Minister Keir Starmer handed over the invite to the president, it gave Donald Trump the media moment he relishes.
"The answer is yes", a proud Mr Trump told the prime minister. He's known to have a genuine affection for the Royal family.
Importantly for Mr Starmer, it got the high-stakes encounter off to a positive start.
The path to a successful meeting had several potential pitfalls. They included differences over security guarantees for Ukraine, UK trade tariffs, the Chagos Islands deal, and Gaza.
Instead, Keir Starmer managed to avoid any embarrassing clashes with the president. Although comments by both leaders were often vague, perhaps purposely so, to avoid getting stuck on points of difference.
For example, Mr Starmer had stated prior to the meeting that he wanted a US security backstop for Ukraine. He didn't get that commitment, only an assurance from Mr Trump, "if they need help, I’ll always be with the British. I’ll always be with them, but they don’t need help".
Mr Trump also spoke of how the minerals deal with Ukraine would prove to be a deterrent for Russia.
Ireland’s Potential Trump Problems
During the press event in the Oval Office with the British Prime Minister, Donald Trump indicated that he was unlikely to impose any trade tariffs on the UK, suggesting some form of trade deal could avoid them.
However, when it came to the EU, he reiterated his tariff threat.
Mr Trump also appeared to refer to the Apple tax case which saw Apple pay €13 billion in back taxes to Ireland, after the company lost a fight against an order by EU competition regulators.
While using different figures, Mr Trump said "they sue our companies. They sued Apple, got $16 or $17 billion dollars, which was, I think, a totally ridiculous decision".
Mr Trump said that he doesn't like how the EU is treating the US.
Ireland’s stance in relation to Gaza may also be a potential flashpoint. There will be pressure on the Taoiseach at home to raise the matter.
However, like Mr Starmer, Micheál Martin will likely want to avoid public disagreements with the new US President.
The major fallout between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Mr Trump laid bare the ease at which these meetings can become ill tempered.
Before he heads to Washington DC, the Taoiseach will meet Mr Starmer next Thursday, for a special Ireland-UK summit.
It’s a summit that will allow both leaders to discuss areas of mutual interest such as security, climate, trade and culture.
Perhaps though, it could also be an opportunity for both men to discuss Trump tactics.
