FORMER US President Barack Obama has said Martin McGuinness's leadership was "instrumental" in helping bring peace to the north.
President Obama sent his condolences to the former deputy First Minister's family and friends ahead of his funeral in Derry yesterday.
He praised Mr McGuinness's "good humour" and said he had a "persistent belief" in a better future for the north.
"I send my condolences to the family and many friends of Martin McGuinness, a man who had the wisdom and courage to pursue peace and reconciliation for his people," he said.
"His leadership was instrumental in turning the page on a past of violence and conflict that he knew all too well.
"In our own meetings, I was always struck by his good humour and persistent belief in a better future for the people of Northern Ireland.
"May Martin rest in the peace that he pursued in life, and may his example inspire others to follow a path of reconciliation."
