Foster Ready To Do Business In The U.S.

During the four-day visit to California's Silicon Valley, the Minister will meet with key business influencers and companies, to promote the North as an investment location and strengthen trade links.

Speaking in advance of her visit, Ms Foster said: "Northern Ireland, like the rest of the world, is emerging from the longest recession on record, so we must take advantage of every opportunity to promote inward investment and accelerate the growth of local companies in global markets.

"From 2002-2010, Invest Northern Ireland has secured over £955million of investment commitments from US companies, promoting 6,558 new jobs in sectors including life sciences, ICT and financial services. These are impressive figures however there does remain clear and significant potential to secure additional investment from the US.

"Northern Ireland offers a highly skilled and educated workforce, a world class research base, and is an ideal springboard for American companies seeking growth in Europe and beyond. Of particular importance are our internationally renowned universities which provide a pool of research expertise in fields including information and communications technology, life sciences, as well as a supply of highly motivated graduates."

The Minister continued: "During my forthcoming visit I will meet with existing investors and a number of potential investors to reinforce the NI proposition.

"It is essential as the global economy recovers and businesses look to the future, that Northern Ireland forms part of their plans. I want to reaffirm my commitment to providing the most supportive environment possible to encourage further investment."