The Belfast Agreement retains the potential to transform relationships in Ireland, the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern insisted today.
As British Prime Minister Tony Blair was honoured for his role in the peace process, Mr Ahern said both men were clear that an end to all paramilitary activity and a commitment to fully inclusive government would usher in a positive new era.
The Agreement which is currenlty under review has come under considerable strain in the past year. Mr David Trimble withdrew the UUP from power-sharing in protest at what he said was ongoing IRA activity. And in November Assembly elections the anti-Agreement DUP emerge as the largest party in the North.
Dr Ian Paisley's party refuses to talk directly to Sinn Féin on major issues while the IRA remains active. And the likely involvement of the IRA in an abduction attempt in Belfast recently has led to the Irish and British governments taking a stronger line with the republican party.
The Taoiseach presented Northern Ireland Secretary Paul Murphy with Mr Blair's award at the traditional St Patrick's Day gala dinner of the American Ireland Fund in Washington.
"The Prime Minister and I have worked closely together trying to bring lasting peace and stability to Northern Ireland," Mr Ahern said.
"Over the years, we have come a long way and made substantial progress. But we still have some way to go.
"I look forward to completing the remaining journey with the Prime Minister, who I know shares the vision of a stable, peaceful and prosperous Northern Ireland and the achievement of a society that cherishes all traditions."
Mr Ahern told the fund's 10th annual awards ceremony both he and Mr Blair were proud of the strong and very positive relationship enjoyed by both men and Britain and Ireland.
"We may not always see eye-to-eye on each and every issue, but when we do not, we make every effort to resolve our differences in the best interest of the process," he said.
"In short, we are partners in the building of peace on the island of Ireland.
"Six years ago, we believed that the Agreement had the potential to transform relationships on the island of Ireland. Six years later, based on the progress we have seen at first hand, we are more convinced than ever that this is the case."
The Taoiseach said the creation of genuine partnership in a society emerging from conflict was a real challenge.
"The key elements involved in the partnership we seek are the need for a definitive and immediate end to all paramilitary activity, no matter what its origin, and acceptance that partnership means fully inclusive and stable Government open to all whose electoral mandates entitle them to participate," he said.
"Professionally and personally, I can think of few better companions on the journey ahead than Tony Blair, and I am very happy to present this prestigious award to Paul on his behalf."
Mr Murphy is in Washington along with most of the Northern Ireland political leaders for the St Patrick's Day celebrations tomorrow, during which they will attend a series of meetings, lunches and dinners.
President George W Bush is expected to use his White House reception to put pressure on Sinn Féin by backing British Government calls for republicans to support the new policing structures put in place in Northern Ireland.
He is also expected to renew his call for an end to all paramilitary activity by the IRA and loyalist groups.
The award won by Mr Blair has previously been given to Mr Ahern, former US president Mr Bill Clinton and ex-SDLP leader Mr John Hume.