The discussions took place as part of a two day inward investment mission led by US under Secretary of State Paula Dobriansky. The mission focused specifically on technology research and development.
Participants in the mission heard the experiences of a number of current investors as well as successful local businesses. Delegates were also given a briefing on the upcoming investment conference in May.
Speaking during a lunch hosted at the Science Park in Belfast, Dr Paisley said: “Northern Ireland has entered an exciting new era. We have begun to build a peaceful, prosperous and stable society and a vibrant, dynamic outward-looking and sustainable economy.
“Northern Ireland has all the right ingredients for North American companies to successfully establish world class Research and Development Centres here. We have a strong pro-business climate and the Executive is committed to further developing our knowledge based economy and encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Mr McGuinness said: “We are the leading region in Europe for inward investment in software development and technical support centres. Investing companies have discovered that we are one of the most cost efficient business locations in Europe for ICT related projects. They have taken advantage of the wealth of talent, and the flexible, loyal workforce. Our innovation is helping to change the world in which we live.
“I hope that our visitors today will go away taking with them an image of an exciting, vibrant place that has much to offer potential investors.”
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