U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Dublin on Saturday for meetings with Ireland’s president and prime minister before travelling to Doonbeg in western Ireland to attend the Irish Open golf tournament at his resort.
The 48-hour visit is not an official state visit, but discussions are expected to cover economic relations, Ireland’s concerns over the Iran war and other politically sensitive issues.
The visit comes as Trump’s Republican Party campaigns to retain its majorities in both chambers of Congress ahead of November’s midterm elections.
The Iran conflict has also heightened economic concerns in the United States, particularly over rising gas prices.
Trump was welcomed at Dublin Airport by Ireland’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister, while anti-war and anti-Trump demonstrations are planned in Dublin and near the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg.
Ireland has been among the European Union countries most supportive of the Palestinian cause and passed legislation in July restricting certain goods linked to Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
The move drew criticism from U.S. lawmakers and the American ambassador to Ireland.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin has sought to maintain close ties with Washington, emphasising the importance of the bilateral relationship.
“The relationship between Ireland and the United States is very important economically,” Martin told reporters when asked about Trump’s weekend trip.
“It’s very, very significant both ways.”
READ ALSO: Trump Confirms China’s Visit Not Seeking Summit with Xi
U.S.-owned companies employ roughly 10 per cent of Ireland’s workforce, reflecting decades of efforts by the Irish Government to attract American investment and corporate tax revenue.
Trump is also scheduled to meet Irish President Catherine Connolly, who was elected last year.
During Trump’s 2019 visit, Connolly, then an outspoken politician on foreign policy, protested outside Shannon Airport. Some of her supporters have called on her to challenge U.S. military actions and defend Ireland’s neutrality.
Trump’s visit also has a personal connection with golf. The Trump Organisation took control of the Doonbeg course in 2014, and the venue is hosting the Irish Open this weekend.
Trump is expected to help present the tournament trophy to the winner on Sunday.
Reuters
