More than 65 high-profile delegates from 10 major international energy cities will arrive in Aberdeen next week to attend the annual general meeting (AGM) of the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP).

The city has previously hosted the AGM when the organisation was first founded and Aberdeen - along with Houston, Stavanger and Halifax - was one of the initial members.

The mayors of these cities will be accompanied by trade delegations and economic development officers in order to encourage international trade links and the exchange of knowledge and information primarily related to the energy industry.

Aberdeen Lord Provost Peter Stephen said the city was "absolutely delighted" to host the event - the largest WECP AGM to take place in recent years - and to welcome the delegates from cities in Canada, China, Saudi Arabia, USA, Angola, Australia, Nigeria, Trinidad and Tobago and Norway.

The high-profile event, which runs from November 5 - 8, gives Aberdeen the opportunity to showcase its energy-related businesses, technology, skills, and expertise to the rest of the world, as well as show off some of the city’s assets.

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The delegates will be welcomed to the city with an evening reception and an invitation to attend the annual firework display at Aberdeen beach.

Two days of meetings discussions, events and opportunities for the delegates to engage with businesses operating in Aberdeen City and Shire will follow.

The influential delegates will have the opportunity to visit Aberdeen harbour, BP's city base, and meet with local business.

They will get a true taste of Scotland on Thursday, 6 November, when they dine at Fyvie Castle. They will also have the opportunity, on Saturday, to tour Glengarioch Distillery and Crathes Castle.

The AGM is supported by Scottish Enterprise, UK Trade and Investment, Reed Exhibitions, Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University, BP and Aberdeen Harbour Board.

The goal of the WECP is to encourage business development and the exchange of knowledge and support services.

The member cities' natural primary market sectors are energy and environment-related technology, although the food industry, tourism, and the public sector are also potential areas for co-operation.

Membership of WECP increases the stream of information flowing between the member cities and gives everyone who joins the network expanded opportunities.

The current members of the WECP are: Calgary, Halifax and St Johns (Canada); Daqing and Dongying (China); Dammam (Saudi Arabia); Houston (USA); Luanda (Angola); Malabo (Equatorial Guinea); Perth (Australia); Port Harcourt (Nigeria); San Fernando (Trinidad and Tobago); Stavanger (Norway); and Villahermosa (Mexico).

(GK/JM)