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Adams, Gerry

Clinton Meets with Gerry Adams, Igniting Anger in Britain

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

President Clinton's meeting with Irish republican leader Gerry Adams has sparked ire in Britain, with the British government criticizing the US decision to admit Adams, who heads the political wing of the Irish Republican Army. The 48-hour visit, which was notable for Adams' toned-down rhetoric and numerous media appearances, has been seen as a significant development in the search for peace in Northern Ireland. Despite the criticism, Clinton maintains that the meeting was necessary to advance the peace process.

Key Takeaways:

  • President Clinton overruled State Department objections to grant Gerry Adams a visa, allowing him to visit the US for the second time in eight years.
  • The British Government has expressed its irritation with the US decision, with Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd pointing out that violence in Northern Ireland continues, including a mortar attack during Adams' visit.
  • Adams has toned down his inflammatory rhetoric and vowed to "go the extra mile" if the British government does the same in the search for peace.
  • At a foreign policy conference in New York, Adams urged the British government to commence unconditional talks with Sinn Fein and called for the US Government to play a positive role in encouraging the peace process.
  • The US Government has committed to helping to create a climate that moves the situation forward in Northern Ireland.
  • Adams' visit has been likened to a major celebrity tour, with the US media giving him extensive coverage.

Statistics:

  • The UK Government has had eight previous occasions to deny Gerry Adams a US visa.
  • The US visa granted to Adams was valid for only 48 hours.
  • Adams has made 48 media appearances during his 48-hour visit to the US.
  • The British Government has criticized the US decision to admit Adams, with Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd stating that violence in Northern Ireland continues.
  • The IRA declared a ceasefire in May 1993, but the British government has since accused them of breaking the ceasefire.

Sources:

  • The New York Times, New York, Wednesday
  • The Guardian, UK, Wednesday
  • Reuters, Washington, Wednesday

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