The President says the human cost of the financial crisis in Ireland has been enormous.
Michael D Higgins made the comment during an address to 700 people at London's Guildhall last night.
The President says Ireland is deeply grateful for the UK's bilateral support during the economic crisis.
Michael D Higgins says while progress in addressing the challenges facing the country has been made - the human cost of the financial crisis has been enormous.
He says unemployment is receding but it remains too high - with the emigration of young people a challenge to Ireland's future prosperity.
Meanwhile in what he describes as a transformational gesture from the President of Ireland he said he will support England in the World Cup in Brazil.
His engagements today include a visit to a farm in Oxford and a tour of a stables in Newbury.
This evening - the Queen will host a Northern Ireland themed reception at Windsor Castle - ahead of an Irish themed concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
