Manchester region sets out global vision
ACHIEVE ITS LONG-TERM VISION TO BECOME A TOP GLOBAL CITY BY 2035
GREATER Manchester set out its ambition to become a global player.
Leaders from across the public and private sector joined together for the official launch of the Greater Manchester Internationalisation Strategy, a three-year framework for action which will be worth more than £2.2bn to the region’s economy.
Held at the Pavilion Theatre in Albert Square, home of Manchester International Festival, guests gathered to hear Sir Richard Leese, the leader of Manchester council and deputy mayor for economic growth and business at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, introduce the strategy.
The strategy sets out how Greater Manchester aims to achieve its long-term vision to become a top global city by 2035.
It identifies eight key priorities which frame the region’s ambitions. These include: becoming a global gateway for the UK and the north; a world centre for trade across the region’s prime and enabling sectors; UK magnet for foreign direct investment in key growth sectors and specialism; a strong portfolio of prime foreign capital investment opportunities promoted globally; strengthened world leading international research capabilities and entrepreneurial talent; the best UK destination for international students; a world class visitor hub, and building the Manchester brand and reputation by telling its story to the global audience.
Sir Richard Leese said: “This latest Greater Manchester Internationalisation Strategy is being launched at a critical time for the region. Manchester has established itself as a premier league European city with a diversified economy. “We’ve now been ranked a top ten global city for FDI Strategy by fDi Global Cities of the Future, and in Lonely Planet’s ‘best in travel.’ “The city’s profile has now never been stronger, with significant developments in key sectors, workforce skills, and quality of life to name a few. Our infrastructure is seeing remarkable development with Metrolink continuing its expansion across the region and Manchester Airport, which connects Manchester to over 200 destinations worldwide, recently reporting its 38th month of consecutive passenger growth.”