LONDON, July 24 (Xinhua) -- Northern Ireland Secretary of State James Brokenshire embarked Monday on a three-day mission to Washington and New York to brief U.S. politicians, influencers and business leaders on the political situation in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland has been without a functioning devolved government since January, when the coalition led by the two largest parties, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Sinn Fein, collapsed over a green energy "cash for ash" scandal.
Talks between Northern Ireland's main political parties, particularly the DUP and Sinn Fein, have so far failed to resolve differences.
Speaking ahead of the trip, Brokenshire said: "Regrettably my visit takes place against a backdrop of political stalemate in Northern Ireland, but this is a timely opportunity to brief members of the U.S. administration, who throughout history have done so much to support our efforts in moving forward the political process, on the current situation."
"I also want to reassure them that the UK government is determined to see devolved, power-sharing government restored," he added.
During a reception at the Northern Ireland Bureau in Washington on Monday evening, Brokenshire will praise the expertise and capabilities of Northern Ireland firms whose endeavors have contributed to attracting over 900 international investors, many of whom from the United States, and employing over 75,000 people.
Brokenshire will also hold bilateral meetings with senior U.S. political figures, including Conrad Tribble of the U.S. State Department, the Vice President's National Security Advisor Andrea Thompson, former Senator George Mitchell and various members of Congress to update them on the British government's priorities in Northern Ireland.
