MAYOR MASIELLO REPORTS ON ATLANTIC CORRIDOR DELEGATION TO IRELAND
August 13, 1999
Contact: Peter K. Cutler (716) 851-4841
 

BUFFALO (8/13/99)- Mayor Anthony M. Masiello today announced the success of the recent Atlantic Corridor trade mission to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Mayor Masiello and a delegation of area business and education representatives traveled to Ireland to solidify details of the developing Atlantic trade initiative.

Last month, Mayor Masiello and the delegates from Buffalo met with government, business and academic leaders in Belfast, Northern Ireland and County Antrim; Dublin and County Offaly, Republic of Ireland.

"We were very encouraged by the meetings held in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland," said Mayor Masiello. "With their rapidly improving economy and their growth in business, they are ideal partners for this important trade initiative. Buffalo-area businesses will be able to benefit from the exchange of ideas and business practices with the Irish developing industries, as well as access the fertile Western European marketplace via our partners in Ireland."

The Atlantic Corridor is designed to provide combined academic/business development assistance to small- and medium-sized businesses seeking opportunities in North America and Western Europe. Buffalo was chosen as the ideal partner to help stimulate Ireland's economy. The two regions are now looking for ways to facilitate business, education and cultural exchange and partnerships to help enterprises in both these areas and/or expand their international presence. The Atlantic Corridor intends to be a powerful bridge across the North Atlantic involving the United States, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland to stimulate and promote economic advancement and learning in a unique alliance.

- MORE -

- 2 -

Accompanying Mayor Masiello and his wife, Kate on the trade mission were delegates from the Buffalo Economic Renaissance Corporation, M&T Bank, Albright -Knox Art Gallery, Canisius College, University of Buffalo, and Kaleida Health Systems.

Please see attached for additional information.

###