The Taoiseach has called for the United Nations to play a key role in the US-led military action against the Taliban in Afghanistan.
"International solidarity in the fight against terrorism is crucial at this time, and we firmly believe that the United Nations has a pivotal role in achieving this", Mr Ahern told students and faculty at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government last night.
"The humanitarian situation will, of course, only be properly resolved in the context of a political settlement which is a prerequisite for long-term peace", he said.
Mr Ahern, who is to visit US President George W. Bush later today and then attend the UN's General Assembly session, told the forum Northern Ireland's experience could serve as a model.
"Our own experience on the road to peace in Northern Ireland has shown us that it is ultimately the power of democratic politics which has the capacity to address the underlying causes of conflict and division", he said.