Biden praises Irish leadership on Ukraine in virtual meeting with Taoiseach

A virtual bilateral meeting has taken place between US President Joe Biden and Micheál Martin, after the Taoiseach tested positive for Covid-19.

The pair discussed a number of topics, including the conflict in Ukraine, the pandemic and the Good Friday Agreement.

Mr Biden said he regretted they could not meet in person.

Quoting WB Yeats, Mr Biden described the impact the Russian invasion of Ukraine has had on the world.

"All changed, changed utterly - a terrible beauty has been born," he told the Taoiseach.

Mr Biden said Irish leadership on the issue has been "noticeable and impressive".

The Taoiseach spoke about the need for a "unity of purpose".

The US leader praised the willingness of Ireland to take in refugees, adding: "What Ireland is doing now, what you are doing, taking in Ukrainian refugees, speak so loudly about your principles.

"And it's amazing and I want to publicly compliment you for it.

"I think you've already brought in over 7,000 or so refugees from Ukraine, and you're prepared to do more. So thank you."

The Taoiseach told Mr Biden: "Ireland stands ready to do everything we possibly can on the humanitarian front and in supporting the broadest and widest sanctions possible to keep the pressure on and to get this war ended."

He also thanked Mr Biden for US support for the Good Friday Agreement.

He praised the "steadfast support", referencing how "important the Good Friday Agreement is in respect of stability and peace on the island of Ireland".

"Over the last number of days as I've been here we've also witnessed, once again, that two-way, very robust economic relationship between the United States and Ireland."

Mr Martin, appearing virtually for the second year in a row due to the Covid-19 pandemic, said it was unfortunate.

"This year, we're meeting virtually across the road, so we're getting closer," he joked.

The Taoiseach's positive result was discovered on the eve of his planned meeting in the Oval Office with President Biden.

The Taoiseach is self-isolating and is described as feeling well.

Видео Biden praises Irish leadership on Ukraine in virtual meeting with Taoiseach канала RTÉ News