British Prime Minister Tony Blair has hailed the IICD confirmation of IRA decommissioning as 'an important development' in the Northern Ireland peace process.
Mr Blair welcomed the news that the amount of arms and material decommissioned by the IRA was 'consistent with the assessments provided by the security services of the two governments last year'.
Speaking at the Labour Party conference in Brighton, he highlighted the efforts to achieve decommissioning made by successive British governments.
He acknowledged that 'failure to deliver it had become a major impediment to moving forward the peace process. Today it is finally accomplished'.
Mr Blair praised what he called an 'important step' in the transition from conflict to peace in Northern Ireland.
He went on to say that while it is important to recognise the 'great significance' of today’s announcement, the victims of violence must always be remembered.
'The true importance of today is that these weapons can never again be used to inflict suffering and create more victims.'
The British Prime Minister also had a message for other groups: 'We call on all other parliamentary groups now to cooperate with IICD on the immediate destruction of their weapons.'
He concluded that the British government will continue to implement its obligations under the Belfast Agreement and the Joint Declaration.
White House praises 'step towards lasting peace'
The White House has welcomed today's report as a critical first step towards a lasting peace.
White House spokesperson, Scott McClellan, said it was an historic day for Northern Ireland and was 'very encouraging for all those who support the peace process, the rule of law and a Northern Ireland free from sectarian violence'.
He warned that the report must be followed by actions demonstrating the republican movement's 'unequivocal commitment' to the rule of law and to the renunciation of all paramilitary and criminal activities.
While US Senator Ted Kennedy said the news of decommissioning offered hope for a 'new dawn' in Northern Ireland.
'This long-awaited action by the IRA is welcomed by all Americans who care deeply about an end to violence in Northern Ireland', he said in a statement.
