The Canadian Prime Minister, Mr Jean Chretien, said the next two weeks would be "crucial" for Northern Ireland. However, he said he had seen a great desire among politicians he had met during his two-day visit to make the peace process work.
After a reception yesterday at Hillsborough Castle, Co Down, hosted by First Minister Mr David Trimble and Deputy First Minister Mr Seamus Mallon, Mr Chretien said he was hopeful the difficulties facing politicians could be resolved and the executive established. Canada would continue to support peace efforts.
Later, the Northern Secretary, Dr Mo Mowlam, said she shared the Canadian Prime Minister's views at a reception for more than 100 participants in the International Fund for Ireland's Wider Horizons scheme.
"It is a difficult time, but as Mr Chretien said, many of the party leaders are determined, and I'm sure in the weeks ahead progress will be made."
Dr Mowlam paid tribute to the generosity of Canada, one of the first donors to the International Fund for Ireland when it was set up in 1986, and continued investment by Canadian companies.
The Wider Horizons scheme enables young people to visit Canada as part of a work experience and training programme, and on Friday, the Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Lloyd Axworthy, announced a further £430,000 donation to the IFI.
"Canadian support to the fund has been very important - not just in cash terms but also in its help and advice in developing policies and work priorities," said Dr Mowlam. She was concerned that the IFI would have trouble getting funding as the British and Irish governments moved towards peace. Thankfully, this had not been the case.
"It is important that funding doesn't stop because, even though step by step we are getting there, sometimes you will go three steps forward and two back - it is the nature of building peace and the continuing help makes a difference."
One young woman told Mr Chretien that after participating in the scheme she had decided not to leave Northern Ireland but "to stay and make a difference".
Dr Mowlam said: "One thing that makes a difference, and which I never realised until last year, was about the personal chemistry of the people involved. Individuals can make a difference and, believing that, progress can be made."
Canada had given the North Gen John de Chastelain, "who helped to make a difference" and was now chairing the decommissioning body.
On Saturday, the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, was guest of honour at a garden party for 2,000 children hosted by Dr Mowlam at Hillsborough Castle. Dr Mowlam said: "It was wonderful. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I'm sure all the kids did too."