22/10/2012

Tánaiste And Minister To Address Over 120 Irish Firms

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore T.D., will address representatives of more than 120 Irish companies today on trade and investment opportunities in Africa's agri-food, construction, information technology and pharmaceutical sectors.

Speaking ahead of today's forum, which is hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in conjunction with the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, and the African Diplomatic Corps, the Tánaiste said: "Africa is developing faster now than ever before. In the first years of the new Millennium, annual economic growth in Africa was almost 5%. And with this growth and development come opportunities for trade and a stronger role for Africa in world affairs.

"In sectors such as agri-food, ICT, construction and pharmaceuticals, Irish-based companies, who are amongst the world's most successful exporters, will play a greater role in meeting Africa's needs. The value of Irish food and drink exported to Nigeria alone rivals exports to China."

Speakers at today's forum include Niall Quinn, who will discuss his experience of doing business in Africa; Mr Youssof Ouedraogo, Special Adviser to the President of the African Development Bank and Dr Karan Sonpar from UCD. Glanbia and ESB International are among the 120 companies represented at the forum.

(CD)

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