Foreign investment projects rise by 41% in Northern Ireland

A new report has highlighted a "significant" increase in the number of foreign investment projects in Northern Ireland last year,

However, the region trails Scotland and Wales in foreign investment.

The annual report from UK Trade and Investment showed Northern Ireland benefited from 38 projects, compared to 27 the previous year - a 41% uplift.

Scotland attracted 111 projects last year (up 16%), while Wales secured 67 projects (up 191%).

According to the government, the UK as a whole is strengthening its position as a top destination for foreign direct investment.

Trade and Investment Minister Lord Green said: "The UK has received a major vote of confidence confirming it remains a world leading business destination."

Earlier this year, Invest NI said it had promoted 2,200 jobs by foreign companies in the 12 months to April 2013.

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