Lessons on peace
- April
- 15
The Good Friday Agreement, which ushered in a new era of peace of cooperation in Northern Ireland, turned 10 years old Thursday. That’s a cause for celebration for Irish Americans in the area, many who left their home county because of poverty and violence linked to the long-standing sectarian conflict.
It’s also a cause for celebration for everyone else. Ireland’s peace provides hope for other nations that struggle with own deep-rooted sectarian conflicts and wars. Here’s a message from the U.S. Department of State about the anniversary, which captures the importance of the event and the lessons that can be learned:
“The United States congratulates the people of Northern Ireland on the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. We recognize and applaud the many positive steps forward over the past 10 years that have led to a peaceful, more prosperous Northern Ireland, where local leaders from each community are governing together and achieving a brighter future for generations to come.The 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement is a reminder to us all that in places rife with conflict, hope prevails. Where centuries’ old divisions exist, peace and reconciliation can succeed, and nothing can prevent courageous leaders and committed citizens from working together to achieve lasting peace for their people.
The United States welcomes the further strengthening of our relationship with Northern Ireland as we continue forward down the path of peace and prosperity for all the people of Northern Ireland.â€
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