Obama lauds Northern Ireland power-sharing agreement

 Washington, Dec 24 (IANS/EFE) US President Barack Obama has praised the agreement reached between the parties of Northern Ireland and the governments of Britain and Ireland, and hoped that it would help vanquish the problems of the past.

"When there is a will and the courage to overcome the issues that have divided the people of Northern Ireland, there is a way to succeed for the benefit of all," Obama said on Tuesday in a statement.

He also expressed his hope for the ratification of the agreement and in the continuous progress in the peace process.

The pact gives the green light to the pending reforms to the social protection system and resolves several of the budgetary challenges faced by the autonomous government.

Obama said that the agreement allowed for making continuous advancements in tackling the divisions and mistrust of the past.

The agreed roadmap, which now has to be approved by the internal processes of both regions, establishes a long term financial plan for Northern Ireland, as well as a framework to resolve matters that are still pending regarding the peace process in the British province.

US Secretary of State John Kerry congratulated the parties for having worked together to overcome differences in very controversial matters and finding solutions to promote a future that is more peaceful and full of hope for the people of Northern Ireland.