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12/03/2014
First Ministers Host Silicon Valley Investment Drive
The First and deputy First Ministers have hosted over 120 Silicon Valley business executives in a bid to attract foreign direct investment, as part of this week's trade mission to the US.
First Minister Peter Robinson said: "Today we met with over 120 Senior Business Executives in Silicon Valley with a clear message that Northern Ireland is a great investment location and 75% of inward investors have reinvested in Northern Ireland.
"Northern Ireland is one of the most successful regions in the United Kingdom for attracting inward investment projects. Belfast is now ranked first after London for attracting foreign direct investment in the United Kingdom. Operating costs in Northern Ireland are on average 20% to 30% cheaper than in the rest of the United Kingdom and Western Europe which, in the current financially challenging environment, is a major consideration for companies. We reinforced why Northern Ireland is one of the most competitive business propositions in Europe due to our transport links, telecommunications infrastructure and the skill base of our people."
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: "Visits like this are not only about helping attract investment, but also to support local businesses to develop export opportunities. The US and wider Americas are an important export market for businesses in the north of Ireland, and it is very important that we help maintain strong links to support them to win new business here.
"In 2012/13 manufacturing exports to the Americas was worth over £1bn. Export growth has been a challenge over the past few years as a result of the global economic downturn. As countries across the world are starting to come out of this downturn we have to be ready and able to capitalise on the opportunities that arise."
(IT/MH)
First Minister Peter Robinson said: "Today we met with over 120 Senior Business Executives in Silicon Valley with a clear message that Northern Ireland is a great investment location and 75% of inward investors have reinvested in Northern Ireland.
"Northern Ireland is one of the most successful regions in the United Kingdom for attracting inward investment projects. Belfast is now ranked first after London for attracting foreign direct investment in the United Kingdom. Operating costs in Northern Ireland are on average 20% to 30% cheaper than in the rest of the United Kingdom and Western Europe which, in the current financially challenging environment, is a major consideration for companies. We reinforced why Northern Ireland is one of the most competitive business propositions in Europe due to our transport links, telecommunications infrastructure and the skill base of our people."
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: "Visits like this are not only about helping attract investment, but also to support local businesses to develop export opportunities. The US and wider Americas are an important export market for businesses in the north of Ireland, and it is very important that we help maintain strong links to support them to win new business here.
"In 2012/13 manufacturing exports to the Americas was worth over £1bn. Export growth has been a challenge over the past few years as a result of the global economic downturn. As countries across the world are starting to come out of this downturn we have to be ready and able to capitalise on the opportunities that arise."
(IT/MH)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A cloudy day with outbreaks of mainly light rain at times, although there may be the odd heavier burst. Driest in the south and east during the afternoon. Moderate southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Staying cloudy throughout the evening and overnight period with a little rain or drizzle at times. Mild overnight with light winds. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
