Noel Johnston, head of Asia trade team of Invest Northern Ireland, told Arab News that the visit of the mission from the region every six months indicated “Northern Ireland’s commitment to developing business links with the Kingdom.” This is the seventh business visit in two years and the second this year, he added.

The professionals, especially those related to the construction industry, on this visit are here to build on business contacts, which they have in Riyadh, Jeddah and the Eastern Province, and to explore new business opportunities with both existing and potential partners, and in particular to learn about the many projects planned for the Kingdom.

“Northern Ireland is one of the most dynamic UK regions. Our region is keen to build mutually beneficial business relationships in Saudi Arabia and other important global markets,” he said, emphasizing that Northern Ireland has a tradition of successful innovation and commitment to technological excellence since it is a long established industrial region with close links between companies and universities.

Two world-class universities in Northern Ireland have research centers of international standing in biotechnology, biomedical sciences, aerospace, nanotechnology, electronic engineering and software development. “These have helped in attracting major international corporations to locate operations in the region.”

“We are all striving to develop mutually beneficial relationships with companies and back them up with long-term customer support services,” he said, urging Saudi businessmen to count on their companies to provide the quality they expect.

Johnston said Invest Northern Ireland was taking part in some of the upcoming international trade exhibitions and related conferences in Riyadh including Saudi Security and Saudi Build.

Some of the mission members are keen on forging business relations with their local counterparts, especially with architects and civil engineers, as well as with those interested in scientific instruments for universities, lighting systems, new wireless accessories and control systems. “Northern Ireland is only a small part of the UK, but our effort is to boost exports as the two-way trade remains in favor of Saudi Arabia,” Johnston said.