Washington DC, 24 February 2023 (TDI): United States (US) Secretary of State, Antony Blinken met with the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom (UK), James Cleverly to discuss ongoing negotiations between the UK & EU on the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.
During their meeting, Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States’ enduring commitment to the peace process, and the importance of protecting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
US State Secretary and UK Foreign Secretary discussed key issues that remain unresolved during the negotiation process.
It included ensuring the free flow of trade across the Northern Irish border, respecting the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, and upholding Britain’s sovereignty in Northern Ireland.
Furthermore, US Secretary encouraged all parties in the negotiations to come to an agreement that is consistent with the letter and spirit of the protocol.
Also, Secretary Blinken expressed his full support for the UK’s commitment to the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement and the peace process.
In addition, the two leaders discussed their shared commitment to strengthening the global coalition against terrorism and violent extremism.
To conclude, US Secretary and the UK Foreign secretary discussed the importance of a successful implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol for the region and the United Kingdom.
In the same vein, US Secretary noted that the United States stands ready to assist in any way possible as the negotiations between the UK and the EU continue.
The US Department of State will continue to monitor the situation and is committed to working with both the UK and the EU to ensure the successful implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.
Background of Northern Ireland Protocol
For the record, the Northern Ireland Protocol is a part of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement that was negotiated between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
The protocol outlines the details of how Northern Ireland will be treated under the future relationship between the UK and EU.
It sets out arrangements for Northern Ireland to remain in the EU’s single market for goods and imposes certain customs requirements for trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
The overall goal of the protocol is to prevent a hard border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland while preserving a peace process.
To mention, the US has been involved in the Northern Ireland Protocol as a facilitator and mediator for peace talks between the opposing sides.
The US has provided diplomatic, political, and economic support to help bridge the divide between the two sides and bring about lasting peace.
Today’s meeting between the US and UK governments was a testament to the enduring commitment of both countries to work together to promote peace, security, and prosperity in the region.
This shows that the US is committed to supporting a lasting peace in Northern Ireland through its involvement in the process.
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