Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly met US President Donald Trump at the White House during St Patrick's Day events in Washington DC. She used the meeting to highlight Northern Ireland's economic potential and historical links with the US.

Little-Pengelly addressed leaders from politics, business, academia, research, voluntary and community sectors, and think-tanks at the NI Bureau Breakfast. She noted that more than 1,500 international companies, many American, operate in Northern Ireland, with nearly two-thirds reinvesting.

In discussions with Trump, Little-Pengelly stressed the two-way relationship between Northern Ireland and the US. She pointed to the US role in transforming Northern Ireland and the mutual benefits of the partnership.

She referenced the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, noting contributions from Ulster Scots or Scotch-Irish immigrants to early America.

At the Speakers' Friends of Ireland Luncheon on Capitol Hill, Trump joked about a merger between Northern Ireland and Ireland, citing Little-Pengelly's rapport with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin. Little-Pengelly called it banter typical of Trump's speeches.

She said the remark showed Trump's awareness of Northern Ireland's political context. Little-Pengelly described her visit as positive, with meetings across Washington to build long-term relationships for business and funding.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill did not attend US St Patrick's Day events. Alliance leader Naomi Long and SDLP leader Colum Eastwood also stayed away from the White House.