US political heavyweights Mike Pompeo and Joe Biden pay tribute to the late John Hume

He stated: "I am saddened to hear of the passing of John Hume, a key figure in Northern Ireland’s transition to peace and stability and a friend of the United States. Together with our Northern Irish friends, we mourn his passing and we will continue our important work to honour his legacy."

The former Vice-President of the United States and the Democratic candidate in the forthcoming 2020 US election Joe Biden, also sent his condolences to Mr. Hume's family.

John Hume's Nobel Lecture in Oslo on December 10, 1998

Mr. Biden, who traces his Irish roots to County Derry, declared: "John Hume committed his life to the principles of non-violence, and through his faith, statesmanship, and perseverance, he helped bring Northern Ireland through the Troubles to a better tomorrow. Jill and I send our condolences to the entire Hume family."

President Bill Clinton: ‘John Hume’s legacy will live on’

The Democratic candidate is the son of Catherine Eugenia 'Jean' Biden (née Finnegan) and Joseph Robinette Biden Sr.

According to the veteran US political correspondent Jules Witcover's 2010 biography 'Joe Biden: A Life of Trial and Redemption,' the "Finnegan side was Irish, from County Derry" while the Biden side was English and French.

John Hume's maiden speech at Westminster June 28, 1983