This week in Washington (30 images)

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., started her introductory speech regaling the history of the event, noting that it was started by President Ronald Reagan and Speaker Tip O'Neil in 1983. Pelosi said, "We gather to celebrate the Feast of Saint Patrick and to toast the friendship between our two nations." Photo by Olivier Douliery/UPI

Varadkar said during the luncheon, "On behalf of the Irish people we thank the Friends of Ireland Caucus in the Congress for their vital help at this vital time to help us protect and ensure that there's no return to a hard border on the island in Ireland, whatever else may happen as a consequence." Photo by Olivier Douliery/UPI

President Donald Trump said "Today we reaffirm our gratitude for the profound contributions, extraordinary service and unyielding spirit of the Irish people." Photo by Olivier Douliery/UPI

Trump shakes hands with Varadkar (L) during a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House on Thursday. Photo by Olivier Douliery/UPI