Clinton hails Northern Ireland progress
Hillary Clinton says Northern Ireland is model of conflict resolution and reconciliation for rest of world
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By inthenews. |  |
Monday, 12, Oct 2009 03:45
By Matthew Champion.
Visiting US secretary of state Hillary Clinton says Northern Ireland has become a model of conflict resolution and reconciliation "around the world".
Mrs Clinton, who addressed the country's national assembly earlier today, said a "triumph of peace and progress over violence and division" had been witnessed in Northern Ireland.
She addressed journalists after holding talks with first and deputy first ministers Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness in Belfast.
Her Northern Ireland trip, which comes after talks with Gordon Brown, his Irish counterpart Brian Cowen and UK foreign secretary David Miliband, is aimed at championing US-Northern Irish economic and investment links.
But any such links are seen as dependant on the devolving of justice and policing to Stormont, the final hurdle to complete devolution.
Sinn Fein wants a new justice ministry in place by December, but the DUP is more cautious.
Speaking today, Mrs Clinton said: "Northern Ireland has come a long way, old enemies are working together to build a stable future."
Hailing a "special bond" between the US and the island of Ireland, she added: "I'm here to send a strong message that the Obama administration in the US is committed to supporting you as you continue your journey.
"We are committed to continuing to offer the hand of friendship and, building on the progress of the past, establish a new foundation for a future of peace and prosperity."
Speaking after the secretary of state, Mr McGuinness said: "Hillary Clinton has been a true friend to all of us.
"Her continued political and emotional connection with us is something that has been to our enormous benefit."