Russia trade mission aims to showcase Irish business

Thirty Irish firms are to take part in a trade mission to Russia coinciding with a state visit by President Mary McAleese, it was revealed today.

The companies, half of which are in IT and business services, will spend time this week meeting existing and potential customers and partners.

Mrs McAleese begins her four-day visit to Russia on Tuesday.

Billy Kelleher, junior minister for trade and commerce, said the trip was an opportunity to showcase Irish business to an important trade partner.

“We want to give Irish firms opportunities to strengthen their business links with Russia and help new market entrants to land their first breakthrough sale there,” he said.

“Our economic recovery will be export-led and the Government’s strategy is to target markets with high growth potential that can generate revenues and jobs for Irish firms.”

Other firms on the trip are involved in engineering, construction, food and drink, and education.

The Government said a key aspect of the trip was a joint knowledge event between the Russian National Nanotechnology Company (Rusnano) and Science Foundation Ireland.

Another important event will give higher education chiefs a chance to build contacts with Russian colleges through Education Ireland.

The trade mission has been organised by Enterprise Ireland.

According to the Government, Russia is Europe’s largest emerging market and Irish exports to the country grew by over 66% in the first five months of this year.

Frank Ryan, chief executive of Enterprise Ireland, said: “We are confident that the efforts of these firms participating in this mission will further boost the already vibrant and dynamic trade partnership between Ireland and Russia.”