Robinson welcomes Governor of Alabama to Stormont

First Minister Rt. Hon Peter D. Robinson MLA met with the Governor of Alabama Bob Riley at Stormont Castle today.

Governor Riley is visiting Northern Ireland to explore the possibility of arranging reciprocal trade missions between Alabama and Northern Ireland in 2011.

On his first visit to Northern Ireland Governor Riley was accompanied by Neal Wade, Secretary of Commerce for Alabama and Hollie Pegg, Director of the Alabama Development Authority.

Mr Robinson said: "The opportunity to develop trade links with companies in Alabama will only enhance Northern Ireland’s position as a truly global competitor. Over the coming weeks and months Invest NI will be working closely with the Alabama Department of Commerce to establish trade missions in Northern Ireland and Alabama.

“Governor Riley has been at the forefront of Alabama’s recent economic recovery, his expertise in this area and in attracting foreign and direct investment will, I have no doubt, assist us in developing our own economic recovery. I look forward to the development of what I believe will be a mutually beneficial relationship."

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