Northern Ireland in the world

As a dynamic and outward-looking region, Northern Ireland is determined that its role in the modern world is fully understood by both the United States (US) and the European Union (EU). It is also keen to develop and deepen economic and business, educational, cultural and artistic links while assisting potential investors to find all they need to know about Northern Ireland to make their investment decisions.

This broader international vision has been supported by Northern Ireland offices in Washington and Brussels.

Northern Ireland in Washington

Representing government, the bureau’s primary role is to develop a positive profile of Northern Ireland among key US policy-makers. This has contributed to economic, political, social and educational progress and seen many mutually beneficial partnerships established. It ensures that the policies of the government are known and understood as well as monitoring policy developments in the US, ensuring Northern Ireland Ministers and departments have up-to-date information and are aware of opportunities for co-operation.

The bureau’s objective is to establish a relationship with the United States that will generate mutual practical benefits in economic development, science, technology, regeneration, post conflict experience and education. It also informs and influences key US organisations and regions to consider doing business with Northern Ireland.

The office is also committed to promoting high profile cultural events in Washington and has appointed a cultural affairs officer to act as an advocate and raise a positive profile of Northern Irish arts and culture in the US. It has had many successes including securing Northern Ireland’s participation (rediscoverni ) at the Smithsonian Institution’s Folklife Festival in 2007.

Northern Ireland in Brussels

The EU has a direct effect on the lives of people in Northern Ireland. It has contributed significantly to Northern Ireland’s economic and infrastructural development and, through PEACE Programme funding, to the process of reconciliation.
The main aims of the office are to monitor EU policy developments relevant to Northern Ireland, to ensure that Northern Ireland's interests are taken into account in the work of the EU Institutions. The office facilitates contacts and links between EU Institutions and Northern Ireland ministers, officials and those working in local government and the non-government sector.
As well as raising the positive profile of Northern Ireland among European policy makers and opinion formers it also pursues co-operation of practical benefit to Northern Ireland with other European regions.