Northern Ireland must ‘be at the table’: Burrows highlights impact of Washington visit

Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) Leader Jon Burrows MLA, with party colleague, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt MLA

Northern Ireland must continue to show up on the global stage or risk being left behind, Ulster Unionist Leader Jon Burrows MLA has said, following what he described as a “high impact” visit to Washington DC aimed at promoting the region’s economic and strategic strengths.

Representing both Northern Ireland and his party in the US capital, Burrows positioned the trip as a crucial opportunity to strengthen transatlantic relationships, attract investment, and ensure Northern Ireland’s voice is heard at the highest levels.

‘If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu’

Reflecting on the visit, Burrows stressed the importance of international engagement in an increasingly uncertain world.

“It has been the privilege to represent Northern Ireland and the Ulster Unionist Party in Washington, the capital of the world’s largest economy,” he said.

Jon Burrows shakes hand with US President Donald Trump

“In an increasingly uncertain world, one truth still holds: if you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu. My focus throughout this visit was to champion Northern Ireland’s interests promoting our skilled workforce, showcasing our world class tourism and hospitality, and making the case for why Northern Ireland remains a strategic partner in defence, innovation, and transatlantic cooperation.”

He added that engagements ranged from promoting Northern Ireland’s UNESCO sites and global golf reputation to emphasising the importance of the Union in areas such as energy infrastructure and security.

Beyond the headlines: investment and influence

US President Donald Trump speaking at the Reception in DC

While high-profile events such as the White House Shamrock Reception and a performance of Where Eagles Fly drew attention, Burrows said much of the real work happened behind closed doors.

“The big events grab the headlines… but much of the real work happens in the quieter rooms,” he said.

“At roundtables with British American Business, Invest NI, the NI Chamber, FSB members, and major companies like Galgorm and AstraZeneca, I set out why Northern Ireland is uniquely positioned for investment: our talent, our location, and our ambition.”

He also highlighted the role of “Team NI” in supporting international promotion, noting that a breakfast event at the Northern Ireland Bureau showcased local products and reinforced collaborative efforts to boost the region’s global profile.

A taste of Northern Ireland on the menu

Personal reflection and shared history

The visit also included a moment of personal reflection, with Burrows paying his respects at Arlington Cemetery.

“I was also honoured to visit Arlington Cemetery to pay my respects, remembering the shared sacrifice of our closest ally and the service of my own grandfather who stood alongside US troops during the Second World War,” he said.

‘Turning up matters’

Burrows concluded by underlining the importance of continued international engagement for Northern Ireland’s future.

“Ultimately, turning up matters. Showing up in Washington ensures Northern Ireland’s voice is heard, our interests protected, and our potential recognised,” he said.

“That is what leadership demands staying connected to home, standing up for our place in the world, and never missing an opportunity to promote the people and businesses that make Northern Ireland exceptional.

North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows with Northern Ireland deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly in Washington

Jon with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin

“We are a beautiful place to live, a fantastic place to work, and home to some of the most hospitable people you will ever meet. It’s time we talked more about what we’re getting right.”

Why it matters locally

For communities across Northern Ireland, including Ballymena, international advocacy and investment discussions can translate into real-world benefits — from job creation and business growth to increased tourism and global recognition.

Burrows’ message signals a continued push to position Northern Ireland as outward-looking, competitive, and confident on the world stage.

At a glance

• Jon Burrows MLA completed a high-level visit to Washington DC

• He represented Northern Ireland and the Ulster Unionist Party

• Focus was on attracting investment and strengthening global ties

• Key engagements included business roundtables and major networking events

• Meetings involved organisations like Invest NI, NI Chamber, and global companies

• Northern Ireland’s workforce, tourism, and strategic value were promoted

• Visit included attendance at major US events and cultural showcases

• Burrows also visited Arlington Cemetery for a personal tribute

• He stressed the importance of international presence: “turning up matters”

• Aim is to boost Northern Ireland’s global profile and economic opportunities