I would like to first and foremost open by thanking the British Irish Association for bringing us all together in these beautiful surroundings.
The BIA continues to play a key role in promoting good relations and a forum for discussion and debate for all of us from across the UK and with our friends and neighbours in Ireland.
These relationships were central to the delivery of peace and stability offered by the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and remain just as key, as we work to build back better and unlock the many opportunities that lie ahead for Northern Ireland.
The past year has been unlike any other but as we are slowly emerging from the worst public health crisis in over a century, our recovery from it is not going to be quick or easy.
That said, I am delighted to have the opportunity to join you today at a moment of great opportunity for Northern Ireland. In its centenary year, I believe we have a chance to reimagine Northern Ireland’s position in the world as a global centre of creativity, ingenuity and prosperity over the next hundred years and more. To do this…
