Politically and in terms of international influence the position of United Kingdom is unparalleled. It still ranks as one of the most powerful countries in the world.

In terms of banking, commerce and trade, it is also unique. The country has a high consumption rate and represents one of the greatest concentrations of wealth. Highly capitalised, its world-famous stock market is the largest in Europe.

"...the outward investments place the UK way ahead of Europe and Japan."

Geographically and historically, with a seafaring past and today as a centre of air travel and transport, the UK is the natural entry point to Europe for many manufacturers and traders.

The country also has an economy which is, by any comparision, enormous. Not only does it receive huge overseas investments, but the UK itself makes outward investments totalling some US$53.5 million*, placing it way ahead of Europe and Japan.

Much of its willingness to invest abroad may well have connections with its colonial past, but as far as trade and influence are concerned, the UK represents a market thar neither developed countries nor emerging regions can ignore.

* Source. The Economist Newspaper Ltd. 1999