Suzanne Clark

Suzanne Clark

President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

During his 1963 state visit to Ireland, President Kennedy described our countries as divided by distance, but united by history. Since then, by all measures—historical, cultural, and commercial—we have only grown closer. More recently, on the centenary of diplomatic relations between our two nations, Ireland’s wonderful Ambassador to the U.S., Geraldine Byrne-Nason, affirmed those ties, noting that “our two countries are founded around the ideas of liberty, democracy and equality of opportunity.”

There is a reason why hundreds of American companies call Ireland their “home away from home,” and successful Irish firms continue to multiply across the United States. We share the same values—about the integrity of the individual, the importance of community, and the imperatives of free enterprise, fair competition, and rule of law. These shared values make our nations and our people the strongest of partners.

The American business community sees Ireland as a voice of reason at the European decision-making table, holding fast against policies that undermine innovation and stymie growth. Ireland is also a vital bridge between the European Union and the United Kingdom. There is no better voice for American business in Ireland than AmCham Ireland, and the U.S. Chamber is delighted to continue our partnership with Paul and his team. Today and in the years ahead, this partnership remains invaluable in securing shared opportunity and prosperity.

Here at home, the U.S. Chamber has prioritized a “growth and opportunity imperative,” supporting policies to spur annual economic growth of 3% or more. Trade and investment between the U.S. and Ireland will contribute to that growth and to Ireland’s continued economic success as well. Already, more than half a million Irish and American workers’ jobs are tied to our $1 trillion commercial relationship, and we’re eager to build those ties further.

The Chamber is privileged to host the Taoiseach during St. Patrick’s week in Washington, and we look forward to continuing that tradition in 2025. Our countries’ connection – and our partnership with AmCham Ireland - is indivisible, and it will continue to serve us well, especially in the face of growing global challenges. Here’s to friendship, to trade, to commerce, and all the ties that bind.

The American business community sees Ireland as a voice of reason at the European decision-making table, holding fast against policies that undermine innovation and stymie growth.