There has been a mixed reaction from politicians in the North to President Clinton's planned visit to Ireland next month. Nationalists have generally welcomed the announcement but many unionists have voiced their disapproval.
SDLP leader, Mr John Hume, said: "I am delighted President Clinton is returning. He has been a consistent friend to the peace process. I will take great pleasure in welcoming him back."
The Ulster Unionist Party's security spokesman, Mr Ken Maginnis, said the US President could put pressure on Sinn Fein to fulfil its commitments under the Belfast Agreement.
"He must remind them of the part he played in securing their visas and giving them the opportunity to enter the democratic process. Sinn Fein owe him and he must expect some tangible response which would move the peace process for ward."
DUP deputy leader, Mr Peter Robinson, said: "Bill Clinton has contributed to the elevation of terrorists and none of us are going to take a lecture on morality from this president."
UK Unionist leader, Mr Bob McCartney, said: "Clinton has made a complete mess of the Middle East. He hasn't been quite as successful here so he is coming back to try again."
The Sinn Fein president, Mr Gerry Adams, said he hoped the visit could provide a push to resolve the deadlock between his party and the UUP.
"At a time of decreasing confidence among republicans at the British government's management of the process, and in the wake of David Trimble's clear breach of the Good Friday agreement, this visit could provide a dynamic which enables those who are in breach of the agreement to face up to their commitments."
The leader of the Alliance Party, Mr Sean Neeson, said: "President Clinton is a good friend of the peace process. This news of this visit should hopefully give a major boost to efforts to preserve a flagging peace process."