Deadlock in North Ireland hard to break despite Biden’s visit

During his visit to Belfast, US President Joe Biden called for the restoration of the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland. Analysts however, do not expect his plea to lead to significant change.

An effective devolved government reflects the people of Northern Ireland and is accountable to them, a government that works to find ways through hard problems together is going to draw even greater opportunity to this region, Xinhua news agency quoted Biden as saying in an address at the Ulster University on Wednesday.

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This week marks the 25th anniversary of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement, which brought an end to 30 years of conflict in Northern Ireland.

Biden arrived in Belfast on Tuesday evening to mark the anniversary, which has been overshadowed by a prolonged political deadlock in the region.

US President Joe Biden walks in Dundalk, Ireland, on Wednesday. Reuters

In opposition to post-Brexit trade rules, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has refused to join the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland for more than a year, raising concerns over political stability.

In February, the UK and the European Union (EU) concluded a new trade arrangement for Northern Ireland after long negotiations.

But the DUP has publicly stated its opposition, arguing that while representing real progress, the agreement fails to deal with fundamental issues.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said on Wednesday that Biden's plea for political leaders to restore their power-sharing government has not changed his feelings on the matter.

"He (Biden) made that clear and to be honest he didn't seek to apply any pressure," Donaldson told Sky News.

Indo-Asian News Service