WASHINGTON - IRISH Prime Minister Brian Cowen will visit President Barack Obama at the White House on March 17, as the US leader marks his first St Patrick's Day in office.

'The United States and Ireland have strong bilateral relations, deep cultural ties and a commitment for positive change in the world,' said White House spokesman Robert Gibbs.

'The president is committed to strengthening our partnership with Ireland to address global challenges.'

Mr Cowen will be among the first European leaders to visit Mr Obama, following the president's talks in Washington with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown next week. -- AFP