The President has called on the Irish and British Governments to encourage people to make peace permanent.
Michael D Higgins has become the first Irish President to make an official trip to the UK.
Addressing Britain's Parliament, Michael D Higgins said the relationship between the two islands is one of a closeness and warmth that once seemed unachievable.
The President says the two countries can take great pride in the progress of the cause of peace in the North - a road still to be traveled he says, one of lasting and creative reconciliation.
Michael D Higgins recognised the Queen's visit to Ireland three years ago expressed how far we've come in understanding and respecting each other.
He says the ties between us are strong and resolute - in trade, tourism, sport, culture and people to people connections.
The Irish community in the UK got special mention - the President saying he greatly cherishes them and their contribution.
The President says there is now an opportunity to sketch our shared hopes and advance our overlapping ambitions.
