The Sinn Fein president, Mr Gerry Adams, has welcomed a letter by the new US President, Mr George W. Bush, expressing the administration's continuing support for the peace process.
In his letter, which came in response to a letter of congratulations on his election from Mr Adams, Mr Bush said he remained dedicated to supporting the peace process. "We will undoubtedly face a number of challenges in the years ahead. I am confident that with a spirit of mutual respect, co-operation and open dialogue we can successfully meet these challenges," the letter stated.