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.
