THE Island's Chief Minister has underlined the strength and diversity of the Isle of Man at an event in the City of London.
This week Allan Bell MHK addressed key business people at the Funds Luncheon event which was organised by the Isle of Man Fund Management Association.
The Chief Minister told attendees that the task of stimulating further growth in the Isle of Man was at the heart of his vision for the Island.
He said: "When I talk about the Isle of Man I describe it as an international business centre that fosters a range of successful sectors - some of which are among the best in the world. We are in a strong position for sustainable growth."
The Chief Minister explained that one of the attractions that helped the Island to stand above competitor jurisdictions was the close and co-operative partnership between the public and private sectors.
He said: "Our success is built upon this healthy relationship and the Isle of Man Government's supportive approach helps to create a nimble, responsive and business-focused environment.
"We cannot afford to be complacent, and there will be challenges ahead, but the latest indications suggest that our economy has continued to grow.
"So far we have avoided recession, our unemployment rate is still low and we don't have a budget deficit to contend with.
"This is an impressive performance given the global economic turmoil of the last couple of years and continuing instability in the euro zone."
Mr Bell also highlighted the importance of the funds industry and urged businesses and investment managers to choose the Isle of Man as a "cost-effective, responsive choice" which would be capable of catering for fund managers' international needs.
The Isle of Man's commitment to developing its funds sector has been boosted by the Isle of Man Fund Management Association's appointment of Ian Morley as its London representative.
Mr Morley, the founding chairman of the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA), will support efforts to attract new UK and international business to the Island.
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