WASHINGTON (AFP) - The death of the world's most wanted terrorist Osama bin Laden marked "a victory for America," former president George W. Bush said Sunday.

Bush, who initiated the "war on terror" to hunt down Al-Qaeda leaders after the September 11, 2001 attacks launched at the start of his presidency, said he had been informed of the news by his successor US President Barack Obama.

"I congratulated him and the men and women of our military and intelligence communities who devoted their lives to this mission. They have our everlasting gratitude," Bush said in a statement released by his office.

"This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001," he added.

"The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done."