U.S. President Donald Trump met Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin on Wednesday for wide-ranging talks that reflected differences over trade and the conflict in Gaza, although both leaders pledged to expand cooperation between the two countries.

President Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) welcomed Irish leader Micheál Martin for the “Friends of Ireland” luncheon Wednesday afternoon at the Capitol. The visit comes as Trump faces uncertainty over his economic agenda following a dip in the stock markets and fears over a trade war sparked by his tariff threats.

The Irish public normally sees the event in fairly simple terms - a meet and greet to celebrate St Patrick's Day and all it means to Ireland and Iris

Taoiseach Micheál Martin began his St. Patrick's Day engagement in Washington, DC by attending a breakfast at the US Vice President JD Vance's residence.

Vice President J.D. Vance welcomed Taoiseach Micheál Martin of Ireland to a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast at the Vice President’s residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory on Wednesday, showcasing his “sock diplomacy.