First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness have hosted over 120 Silicon Valley business executives in a bid to attract further foreign direct investment.
Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness with Christopher Caldwell, president, Concentrix Corporation and general manager, SYNNEX Global Business Services.
The Ministers took the opportunity to promote the merits of doing business in Northern Ireland to further enhance our growing reputation as a prime investment location to potential and existing investors.
Mr McGuinness said the meeting enabled them to market and promote the North and explore the potential for trade.
He added: “If you don’t travel to the US and meet Senior Business Executives you simply don’t count.”
He said such visits were not only helped attract investment but also to supported local businesses to develop export opportunities.
He added: ““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 £1 billion.
“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.
“We have a talented labour force with a very strong work ethic and are well placed to meet international business needs.
“The retention of existing investors is as important as attracting new investors. Reinvestment by global companies sends a strong signal to the world and is an excellent endorsement of our people.”
Mr McGuinness concluded: “We will make every effort to ensure all businesses coming to the north of Ireland are given the support they need to grow and prosper and deliver for our community, creating jobs and improving lives.”
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