Irish political leaders are lauding President Biden after his decision to withdraw from the November presidential election.
Taoiseach Simon Harris said that Biden had been a voice for reason, effective multilateralism, and shared solutions in the world.
“When we spoke on the phone last month, President Biden and I discussed his plans for a ceasefire in Israel’s war in Gaza," said Harris.
"This plan remains the only way on the table to stop the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, release hostages and allow aid to flow freely. I am glad the President will continue his focus on this in the weeks and months ahead.”
Harris said that Biden, who is passionate about his Irish roots and heritage, had always been an unwavering voice and passionate worker for peace on the island of Ireland "and our country owes him a great debt for this."
Added Harris: “On a personal level, President Biden is a proud American with an Irish soul. When he arrived into Belfast, Louth and Mayo last year he himself said it was like coming home.”
The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, said he heard the news of Biden's decision not to run for re-election with “both sadness and admiration.”
President Biden, he said, and according to the Irish Times, had been an abiding friend of Ireland, providing invaluable support for peace and prosperity on the island.
“His visit last year will long be remembered as a powerful and joyous celebration of our relationship with the U.S,” Martin said.
“This has no doubt been the toughest of calls, but one done, as ever, with dignity and class. I know that the people of Ireland will wish President Biden the very best.”
