President Mary McAleese has concluded a one-day visit to the Ards peninsula in Co Down.
She visited the community centre and a school in Portaferry, and this afternoon made a visit to the Kircubbin regeneration project.
Her final engagement before returning to Dublin was at Ballycran GAA club.
Alliance Strangford MLA Kieran McCarthy described it as an historic day for the area and an extremely positive event.
Mr McCarthy said the visit was very significant in that it would help to strengthen business and cultural links between the Ards peninsula and the Republic.
He believes that, given the current economic climate, greater co-operation is important to bolster the local economy.
'Strengthening good relations is vital too because it sends out a strong message that Northern Ireland is open for business and welcomes everyone.
'Sinn Féin and the DUP would do well to reflect on this positive event and get back to business to show that Northern Ireland really is moving forward,' he added.
