Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has thanked the US President for the part he played in helping to achieve peace in the North.
Mr Ahern made the comments during the annual St Patrick's Day ceremony in the White House.
Mr Ahern said Mr Bush's personal role in the achievement of peace is deeply appreciated.
He also paid tribute to the commitment and support of those in previous administrations, on Capitol Hill and in the Irish-American community.
During his speech the Taoiseach also touched on the plight of Irish people who are living illegally in the US and described today's meeting with President Bush as substantial and useful.