OFMDFM Congratulate Donald Trump On US Presidential Election Victory

Donald Trump is set to become the 45th President of the United States of America, having beaten former US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton.

Trump won a number of key swing states including Florida, Ohio and North Carolina, to take a decisive victory over his opponent.

While not all votes have been counted, it is understood that Mrs Clinton telephoned Trump conceding defeat and offering her congratulations. Trump has also addressed a victory rally of his supporters in New York.

Locally, the First Minister and deputy First Minister congratulated Trump on his win.

First Minister Arlene Foster said: "I congratulate Donald Trump on his historic election as the 45th President of the United States of America.

"We are a small region but we are fortunate to have strong historical, economic and political ties to the United States.

"Northern Ireland has developed a mutually beneficial relationship with the United States and I look forward to working with Donald Trump's administration to continue this.

"As our largest inward investor the United States plays a massive role in our economic progress."

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness added: "I congratulate Donald Trump on his election victory. I will work constructively with President Trump to maintain and strengthen our well established and deeply valued relationship with the United States.

"Over many years successive US administrations have made a major contribution to both our peace process and economic development and I expect this to continue. 

"I commiserate with Hillary Clinton who showed unwavering commitment to the north of Ireland as Secretary of State and First Lady."

(MH/JP)