NI leaders to meet Obama during trip

Mr Robinson and Mr McGuinness will conduct meetings with both administrations and with business leaders in the wake of the St Patrick's Day celebrations.

They will be received by President Obama at the White House on Tuesday, and will also hold talks with US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Washington D.C.

They will later travel to Montreal for a visit to the Bombardier factory before heading to Toronto where they will meet with representatives of the Canadian travel industry and key figures from the business and finance sectors.

The trip will also be used to promote what tourist chiefs describe as a landmark year for the region, with the centenary of Titanic's maiden voyage and the Irish Open in Portrush.

The visit will see the premiere of a special promotional DVD about Northern Ireland entitled 'Your Time, Our Place', showcasing the region and the events taking place in 2012.

Mr Robinson said the programme of events in 2012 will attract more tourists and investors.

He said: "With so many important fixtures on the calendar during 2012 we are keen to promote the Province far and wide.

"Our message is one of confidence, optimism, economic regeneration and the readiness of Northern Ireland to compete internationally as a first rate location for investment and jobs."

Mr McGuinness said tourism will play a central role in Northern Ireland's economic recovery.

"The Executive has put the creation of a vibrant economy at the very top of its priority list.

"Our confidence has never been higher because there really never has been a better time to see the north. We can guarantee visitors a time to treasure."

Mr Guinness said the executive hoped to increase visitor numbers to 4.2 million and tourist revenue to £676m by December 2014.

The St Patrick's party organised at the White House on Tuesday will also be attended by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who will be in the US next week to promote Ireland to leaders in business, politics and tourism.