The leaders of the top industrialised nations have urged a Yes vote in Friday's referendum on Northern Ireland's Good Friday Agreement.

BBC News 24 Chief Political Correspondent Huw Edwards: 'It is a crucial commitment' (0'36")

The G8 leaders, who discussed the peace process at their summit working session at Weston Park, near Birmingham, welcomed the deal as a basis for prosperity and peace.

While acknowledging the need for the deal to secure widespread support, all the G8 countries pledged their backing for the peace process.

Tony Blair and Bill Clinton explain why they are pushing for a Yes vote in the referendum (3'17")

In a statement, the leaders said: "We warmly welcome the Belfast Agreement reached on 10 April.

"We commend all those involved in achieving an outcome which reflects the fundamental aspirations of both parts of the community in Northern Ireland and secures their rights.

"We recognise that the agreement must win the support of the people in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

"While acknowledging that it presents challenges to all parties, we hope it will achieve the widest possible support, not only as a basis for political stability and peace but also as an opportunity for economic development and prosperity for all Northern Ireland's people.

"We pledge our countries' support for this process."

Tony Blair: Hope for investment

The British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, earlier said other countries might boost investment in Northern Ireland if the Good Friday Agreement is approved in the referendum.

"I think there is a tremendous feeling right round the world that the opportunities for Northern Ireland are just tremendous," he said.

Eight parties reached agreement on April 10 on an accord that would see Catholics and Protestants sharing power in a Northern Ireland Assembly.

For ratification, it must be approved in a referendum on Friday in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

On Friday US President Bill Clinton called the accord a "chance in a lifetime" for the province, which should not be squandered.

He also warned the IRA and terrorist groups that those who rejected it and resorted to violence would have no friend in America.

UK viewers will be able to see the whole of the interview with Tony Blair and Bill Clinton on Sunday on BBC 1's Breakfast with Frost programme at 08.30 BST.

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