Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin continues his engagements in the United States on Thursday following a mixed meeting with Donald Trump, during which the U.S. president raised concerns about the “massive” trade imbalance between the two nations.

At a traditional annual event, Mr. Martin presented President Trump with a bowl of shamrock, symbolizing the strong ties between Ireland and the U.S. During the ceremony, which is a key part of Ireland’s diplomatic efforts leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, Trump expressed his admiration for Ireland. “I love the Irish,” he declared, adding that he is always impressed by the country’s beauty and the resilience of its people.

However, during a 50-minute discussion with reporters in the Oval Office earlier on Wednesday, Trump made more pointed remarks about Ireland’s trade practices. His comments came amid growing concerns over his administration’s protectionist stance on tariffs and taxation, which could significantly impact the Irish economy, given its reliance on U.S. multinational investment.

While Trump stated that he does not wish to harm Ireland, he emphasized the need for a fairer trade relationship. He accused both Ireland and the European Union of exploiting the U.S., stating that Dublin is “of course” taking advantage of American interests.

“There’s a massive deficit that we have with Ireland and with other countries too,” Trump told reporters. “We want to sort of even that out as nicely as we can, and we’ll work together.” He also criticized Ireland’s favorable tax policies, which he claimed entice U.S. pharmaceutical companies away, and took issue with the EU’s ruling that Apple owes Ireland billions in back taxes.

In response, Mr. Martin defended Ireland’s economic ties with the U.S., asserting that American pharmaceutical companies are thriving in the country and that the economic relationship is mutually beneficial. He also praised Trump’s efforts to promote peace in Gaza and Ukraine and expressed hope that the president would visit Ireland again.

Later on Wednesday, Martin attended a Friends of Ireland luncheon at the U.S. Capitol and a breakfast meeting at the vice president’s official residence. He and his wife, Mary, were welcomed by Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, at the U.S. Naval Observatory.

Meanwhile, Trump also met with Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, and Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots at the U.S. Capitol. Little-Pengelly noted that Trump showed a strong interest in Northern Ireland and that their discussions focused on maintaining a positive relationship between Northern Ireland and the U.S.

On Thursday, Martin’s schedule includes meetings with business leaders and attendance at the annual black-tie Ireland Funds National Gala. Additionally, Little-Pengelly and Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn are set to take part in the NI Bureau breakfast event.