America250 and Ulster Scots connections

That this House notes that 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America; further notes the decisive role played by settlers and their descendants, and that many of the early pioneers and leaders of the emerging nation were of Ulster Scots descent; recognises the continuing strength of the transatlantic relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States, grounded in shared democratic values, close defence and security co-operation, and extensive economic, educational and cultural links; further notes the programme of America250 commemorations being taken forward in the United States to mark this historic milestone; and expresses the hope that during this 250th anniversary year, His Majesty’s Government and the US administration will work together to highlight and deepen the historic connections between our two nations, particularly the major contribution of the Ulster Scots diaspora to the birth and development of the United States.