Strong words here from the speaker of the United States House of Representatives.
Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker of the US House of Representatives has issued a statement warning that any trade deal between the United States and the UK had "no chance" of being approved if it jeopardises the Good Friday Agreement.
Her comments would appear to significantly reduce the likelihood of a deal being made between the two countries if the UK leaves the EU with a no-deal later this year.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Pelosi wrote: "The Good Friday Agreement serves as the bedrock of peace in Northern Ireland and as beacon of hope for the entire world.
"After centuries of conflict and bloodshed, the world has witnessed a miracle of reconciliation and progress made possible because of this transformative accord."
She continued: "Whatever form it takes, Brexit cannot be allowed to imperil the Good Friday Agreement, including the seamless border between the Irish republic and Northern Ireland, especially now, as the first generation born into the hope of Good Friday 21 years ago comes into adulthood. We cannot go back.
"If Brexit undermines the Good Friday accord, there will be no chance of a U.S. - U.K. trade agreement passing the Congress.
"The peace of the Good Friday Agreement is treasured by the American people and will be fiercely defended on a bicameral and bipartisan basis in the United States Congress."
