“ My government remains as fully committed today as we were in 1998 to making the Good Friday Agreement work. Recent events have damaged confidence, but they've also crystalized what must now be done to finalize the process and achieve stable partnership of government in Northern Ireland. Partnership politics requires all parties to play their part. But if trust and confidence is to be established, tangible evidence of commitment to a democratic peace is essential. ”

“ Patrick's Day is one of joy and celebration for Irish communities all over the world. It's a time when members of the extended Irish family and friends express pride in our homeland and in the bonds that tie us to Ireland. ”

“ President, today we also acknowledge the true and constant friendship which we receive from this country for the efforts to secure peace and stability in Northern Ireland. Your even-handed support and wise counsel continues to be an invaluable resource to us in our search for lasting peace.
As you know, we were very close last December to bringing an end to the journey we first began with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in April of 1998. The United States has been with us every step of the way. ”

“ As you and I have discussed, open markets and better trade relations are key components to a more peaceful, a more stable and a more prosperous world. Through expanded trade, the roots of democracy and freedom are deepened. And here at home, trade policy opens markets to create jobs, a higher standard of living and greater economic growth. ”

“ As a member of the House leadership, Rob has shown he can bring together people of differing views to get things done. He's been a tireless advocate for America's manufacturers and entrepreneurs. He's a former international trade lawyer who has shown a deep dedication to free and fair trade. ”

“ He understands that trade creates jobs, raises living standards, and lowers prices for families here at home. Rob also understands that as the world trades more freely, it becomes more free and prosperity abounds. ”

“ And now he will bring that commitment to his new role as U.S. Trade Representative.
As an Ohioan, Rob knows firsthand that millions of American jobs depend on exports, including one in every five factory jobs. Our country is home to about 5 percent of the world's population, and that means 95 percent of our potential customers are abroad. To keep our economy growing and creating jobs, we need to continue opening foreign markets to American products. And Rob knows that America's farmers and workers can compete with anybody, anytime, anywhere in the world, so long as the rules are fair. ”

“ I've had the honor to represent them for almost 12 years now, and I'm very proud of what we've been able to accomplish. The people of Southern Ohio, and my hometown of Cincinnati, have given me opportunities to serve that I never dreamed possible. ”

“ When terrorists struck our nation, the Irish were well-represented among the firefighters and police officers who sacrificed their lives to save others at the World Trade Center. In a great Irish tradition, Marines preparing to retake the city of Fallujah prepared for battle to the strains of Lt. ”