Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On St. Patrick’s Day, we celebrate Ireland for its rich history and culture, and the works of St. Patrick. Each year on this day, the people of the United States celebrate the especially deep cultural connections between the United States and Ireland. For centuries, Irish immigrants have shaped United States. From Dublin, California, to Shamrock, Texas, and of course my hometown of Boston, deep community connections to Ireland span coast to coast. St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to appreciate our unique shared history.

"As Ireland prepares to commemorate the centennial of the events that led to the establishment of an independent Ireland, we can all look forward to celebrating Ireland’s bright future. Relations between the United States, Ireland, and Northern Ireland are as close as ever. We are forging new connections through educational and cultural exchange, entrepreneurship, scientific research, trade, and investment. Just as St. Patrick fostered community in Ireland, our two countries will continue to build upon our strong foundation and work together to make the world a better place.

"I wish all the Irish, at home and abroad, a Happy St. Patrick’s Day and many years of strong Irish-American cooperation to come."