The new US envoy Gary Hart is in Belfast for the latest round of talks at Stormont.
It's the former senator's first trip to the North since being appointed last week.
The Stormont parties are negotiating to try to resolve outstanding issues, including budgets, welfare reform, and the legacy of the Troubles.
Mr Hart has promised to "listen closely" to all sides involved in the talks, whom he's meeting separately.
Belfast journalist Eamon Mallie on where these talks can go;
