Taoiseach to visit United States

The Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, is to travel to United States later on his first official visit.

He will meet with a number of senior US political and business figures and leading members of the Irish-American community in New York.

Mr Cowen hopes to highlight the future development of Ireland's economy and its relationship with the US.

"I will be bringing a clear message that Ireland is now a confident and successful European country," he said

The taoiseach will meet with the chairman of the Friends of Ireland in the US Congress Richie Neal, New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg and the Governor of New Jersey, Jon Corzine.

He will also meet with key business figures at the New York Stock Exchange and address the Wall Street 50 Dinner, one of the premier Irish events of the year in New York.

"I look forward to meeting our many friends in the United States and listening to their advice on how we can continue to work together during a turbulent period for the global economy," he said.

"I am also delighted to be meeting with representatives of the Irish community in America, who have been and remain a key part of Ireland's international success story and of our nation."

Mr Cowen will also visit the World Trade Tribute Center at Ground Zero.