To ask the Minister for the Economy, given the importance placed on diaspora engagement by Invest NI, to detail the engagement he has had with the First Minister and deputy First Minister in relation to the development of a diaspora strategy as part of the development of an updated Executive international relations strategy.

On my recent international trips to the United States, Canada and Germany, I have seen at firsthand the passion, commitment and energy of our diaspora community. It is important that we harness that energy in a focussed way aligned with our strategic economic agenda. The establishment of both Net Zero and Life and Health Sciences Advisory Boards in recent months is an excellent example of how we are working through Invest NI and its NI Connections programme to tap into that pool of expertise.

The role of diaspora engagement to boost trade and investment is recognised in Invest NI’s 2024-2027 Business Strategy, which is currently out for consultation. I and my officials will continue to engage with TEO and others

to tell the positive story of our diaspora and the role it can play in driving forward our economic agenda.