Lord Mayor Eibhlin Byrne welcomes a Russian Trade Delegation to the Mansion House at 17.30 pm on Tuesday 3rd March 2009. The delegation is visiting for the Seventh Session of the Russian Federation – Ireland Joint Economic Commission. Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mr Dimitry Kozak leads the high-level Russian delegation.

Lord Mayor Byrne said "It gives me great pleasure to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister and members of both delegations to the Mansion House.  In these challenging times it is crucial that we continue to develop trade and economic links for Dublin. I look forward to strengthening social, political and cultural ties with the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg.  Dublin’s future lies in our capacity to operate in a global market and connection to Russia provides access not just to Russia itself but also to the gateway of Asia.  At this current critical time in our city’s history it is imperative that we leave no avenue of possible economic co-operation unexplored. The rising economies of Moscow and St. Petersburg offer valuable opportunities for Dublin business and a unique possibility for cultural and social links.  I look forward to promoting this link by welcoming the delegation and by our return visit to Russia."

 
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 For Further information please contact: Dublin City Council Press Office: T. (01) 2222170 / 086 8150010 E. info@dublincity.ie  

Notes to Editor
Dublin City Council officials will meet with technology company representatives during the Russian delegation’s visit. Together they will explore future Knowledge business links between Dublin and St Petersburg. Higher Education institutions in Dublin are actively engaged in recruiting post-graduate and research students from the Russian Federation.

The Lord Mayor will lead a delegation from Dublin to Moscow and St Petersburg to discuss stronger economic, cultural and educational ties between Dublin and these Russian cities in March. Dublin City Council has approved the signing in Moscow of a co-operation agreement.