Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly spoke at the annual Northern Ireland Bureau Breakfast in Washington DC. She addressed political, business and academic leaders on Northern Ireland's investment appeal.

Little-Pengelly stated that more than 1,500 international companies have operations in Northern Ireland. Many originate from the United States. Nearly two-thirds of these firms reinvest in the region.

She described Northern Ireland as a location where global companies scale ideas and talent meets opportunity. Little-Pengelly noted that the region's size does not limit its international ambition.

The deputy first minister also mentioned historical ties to the United States. She pointed to Ulster-Scots and Scotch-Irish immigrants who shaped early America ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Little-Pengelly urged entrepreneurs and investors to visit Northern Ireland.