US special advisor on Northern Ireland today vowed America would stand up to terrorism, saying he remained optimistic about prospects for long-term peace in the North.
Speaking after two days talks, Mr Richard Haass, special adviser on Northern Ireland to President George W. Bush tried to encourage a positive atmosphere.
He said: "The issues are well-known and the path ahead is well defined. If the political will is there, I think there is no limit to what could be accomplished."
In Derry, the RUC said suspected Irish republican renegades tried to kill officers in an overnight bomb attack in Derry city. A roadside bomb exploded in a rubbish bin as police vehicles went to investigate a report that a car was on fire. Three RUC officers suffered shock.
Mr Haass interrupted his talks today to attend a ceremony in memory of the victims of yesterday’s US attacks.
"This is a difficult situation for Americans. We've got some mourning to do but also we've also ultimately some acting to do.
"The United States is not prepared to see terrorism stand - to go unchallenged - as the president has said," he said in a visit to Belfast City Hall for the opening of a book of condolence which was also signed by Northern Ireland Secretary Dr John Reid and many members of the public.