Senior political and business figures from Ireland have rung the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange to mark 'Ireland Day'.
The annual event brings together Irish and US leaders for the Ireland INC Leadership Forum.
This year's conference, themed "The Next 250: Stronger Together", explored the future of the US–Ireland economic partnership.
It featured contributions from Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, US Congressman Mike Lawler, and a number of leading executives from companies including Pfizer, Blue Owl Group, Intuition and Keychain.
Irish companies now employ more than 200,000 people across the United States, and Ireland is currently ranked as the fifth largest foreign direct investor into the US.
"It is a privilege to join Ireland Day at the New York Stock Exchange – a landmark event in our global St Patrick's Day and a moment to celebrate Irish business and economic success," said Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.
"Ireland and the US have a remarkable economic relationship, now valued at over one trillion dollars."
"It is a partnership that delivers for both countries, driving prosperity on every Irish county and in every American state," Mr Burke said.
Ian Hyland, Founder and President of Ireland INC, said the Ireland Day Leadership Forum communicates the strong economic and business bonds between Ireland and the United States.
"Over 800 Irish businesses are now invested and expanding across the United States and nearly 1000 US corporations invested across Ireland," Mr Hyland said.
"The Ireland INC Leadership Forum is a working platform where leaders from business, government and public policy come together to shape the next chapter of the US-Ireland economic relationship," he added.
