Secretary of State says education is key to celebrating 25 years of Belfast Agreement on Good Friday

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris met with young people at King’s University Belfast to discuss plans to mark the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement on Good Friday 2023.

Mr Heaton-Harris was welcomed today (Wednesday 26 October) by King’s University Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Greer, who discussed the university’s upcoming program of events to mark the anniversary. This includes a major international conference organized in conjunction with Senator George J. Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice. Mitchellat Queen’s.

Speaking to students during a visit to One Elmwood, King’s University’s new student center and student union, the Secretary of State highlighted the vital role that education plays in increasing understanding and recognition of the transformative role that the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement played and continues to play in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

He said: “The 25th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement (Good Friday) marks an extraordinary achievement for Northern Ireland, with the Agreement helping to lay the foundations for the more peaceful and prosperous Northern Ireland we see today.

“I am delighted to hear about the King’s University Belfast program and discuss with young people what the anniversary means to them – they are key to preserving the benefits of the Agreement for the next generation.

“This jubilee moment gives us a great opportunity to ensure that young people in Northern Ireland and across the UK are well informed and able to take full part in the progress made since the signing of the Agreement.

King’s University President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Greer said:

“Queen’s University Belfast is honored to host a landmark event to mark the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.

“With current world leaders, as well as the architects of the original agreement, coming to Belfast to mark the anniversary, it is fitting that it takes place in an institution that places social and civic responsibility at the heart of its activities.

“In partnership with the Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice, Senator George J. Mitchell, the three-day conference will provide a unique opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the Agreement and discuss the challenges and solutions needed to advance the path of peace and a prosperous future for the region.”

ENDINGS

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