Obama praises Taoiseach's leadership
US President Barack Obama has praised the Taoiseach Enda Kenny for his leadership, and lauded progress in the Irish economy.
Speaking in the Oval office in the White House, where he met with Deputy Kenny to mark St Patrick's Day celebrations, President Obama said the trade and investment between Ireland and the US was good for both countries.
He said reports of a major deal between Ryanair and the US company Boeing was an example of the type of agreement which created jobs in Ireland and the US.
He said the Irish economy is making strong progress.
"The Taoiseach has shown great leadership during difficult times in Ireland," said President Obama.
"We're seeing progress in the Irish economy, that's good for the US economy because we have a lot of trade, a lot of investment in Ireland."
Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he wanted President Obama to return to Ireland for a round of golf in the near future:
"Of course, there is a standing, open invitation to President Obama to come back to Ireland whenever is convenient and appropriate and when he so wishes," said the Taoiseach.
"And maybe the next time when our economies are moving in a more positive direction, we might actually have time to take out the sticks on the golf course.
"I'm looking forward to that some time in the future."
