Minister Dodds believes the event, of which the primary private sector supporters are BT and Northern Bank, provides a unique opportunity for Northern Ireland’s private sector to build mutually beneficial relationships with US businesses.
Mr Dodds said: “Next week’s conference will welcome over 100 senior US executives from more than 80 companies to Northern Ireland. This will be the largest number and highest quality of leading business people ever to visit the region at any one time.
“This makes it a one-time opportunity for government and our private sector to engage directly with influential US representatives and promote Northern Ireland’s ambition for economic prosperity.
“It is very encouraging to have two major companies, BT and Northern Bank as our primary supporters and is testimony to the hope and determination of our local private sector to establish relationships with international investors in a bid to build a vibrant, dynamic and outward looking economy.”
Chris Clark, Chief Executive Officer, BT believes the conference can focus on the potential for economic growth in Northern Ireland.
He said: “BT is honoured to have been chosen as one of the supporters of this conference. As a global company we can see the huge benefits for Northern Ireland in having closer links to the US while also giving us the opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland as an attractive, competitive location that is ripe for investment. This is an excellent example of the private sector working alongside the public sector to realise the potential there is for the future of our economy.”
Gerry Mallon, Chief Executive Officer designate, Northern Bank believes the financial services sector has a key role to play in boosting the economy here.
He said: “The economy, rather than politics, is now the main force shaping the future for Northern Ireland. As a leading financial services provider, we believe we have a significant role to play in helping to develop ‘Northern Ireland Limited’. We are proud to be one of only two major private sector supporters of the US-NI Investment Conference and play our part in building a strong, prosperous economy.”
Minister Dodds is looking forward to a fruitful conference. He concluded: “The level of local and international interest and support that we have received for May’s conference, gives me confidence in our ability to position the whole of Northern Ireland as a highly competitive, stable, ambitious investment location. Our American visitors will find an Executive, an Invest NI and a business community willing and ready to assist with business and investment opportunities.
“This is a unique chance for all of us to showcase how and why Northern Ireland is the right location for international investment now and in the years to come.”
Notes to Editors:
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