The deal between Sinn Féin and the DUP marks a significant triumph for US foreign policy, senior congressmen said in Belfast yesterday.
Richard Neal, a Democratic member of the House of Representatives, said: "If it were not for Iraq this would be the triumphant moment for American foreign policy. I think there would be a great deal more attention being paid to it. It's extraordinary."
Jim Walsh, a Republican member from New York, agreed: "Sometimes our president befuddles me," he told The Irish Times.
"He made phonecalls the day before the Adams and Paisley meeting - yet he didn't put out a press release, he didn't take any credit. It was just part of a very busy day. Both presidents Clinton and Bush, both houses set it in train, both parties Republican and Democrat, Richie and I have worked side by side on this - that's great foreign policy."
Both men said the speed of political developments since March 26th had surprised everyone. "It has been terrific," Mr Neal said.
"One of the unifying themes of our visit is that there has been a great note of optimism. Even the parties as we have met with them privately have expressed their support for the idea that DUP and SF have made the agreement go forward."
Congressman Walsh added: "The pace of change had been breathtaking. What sealed the deal was the vote. The people said, let's do it, let's get it done. It empowered Adams, it empowered Paisley. There's a lot to be said for democracy."
Asked if Northern Ireland could serve as a model for other conflicts he said: "It's not quite that simple but yes, I do believe that."
Mr Neal said the delegation of members looked forward to meeting Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness at the party's Falls Road headquarters later today. "Everyone here would give him the same message," he said.
"Congratulations, there is a way to go, but it is a long way from where we've come."
SDLP deputy leader Alasdair McDonnell, speaking after an hour-long meeting with the US delegation, said: "The US connection has been vital for the SDLP over the 35 years and the value of their assistance in unlocking the peace process can never be underestimated.
"The SDLP believes that we must retain the robust relationships we have with US Congress members to ensure that every economic potential on both sides of the Atlantic be fully exploited.
"We believe that there are significant opportunities for trade and investment in both directions."
The visiting delegation also held talks in private with DUP leader the Rev Ian Paisley.
In addition to Mr Neal and Mr Walsh, the delegation included congressmen Tim Murphy, Mike Doyle, Tim Holden, Brian Higgins, Maurice Hinchey and congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy.