Thousands of energy sector representatives are expected to arrive in Aberdeen for Offshore Europe 09, which runs from Tuesday, 8 September to Friday, 11 September at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.

This biennial event is the most prestigious business conference and exhibition held in the city.

The 2007 exhibition attracted a total daily attendance of over 40,000 over the four days, generating £25.94m for the local economy.

Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils will share a prominent stand at the prestigious event, assisting 22 local companies to exhibit on a prime site at the show. The councils are supported by Robert Gordon University, the University of Aberdeen, and Eastern Airways.

Across the course of the week, Aberdeen City Council will play host to a number of VIP and international delegations who will participate in a programme of seminars, trade clinics and business-to-business meetings.

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The energy sector plays a key role in the region's economic life, supporting more than 40,000 jobs and contributing to 39% of UK employment in the oil and gas industry.

The region is the location of choice for companies to service their overseas markets with local companies exporting to over 100 international markets. Sales from the region have increased by 18% over the last 10 years, six times faster than across Scotland as a whole.

Aberdeen City and Shire is one of the most prosperous parts of the UK and a key driver of the Scottish economy.

The Offshore Europe Conference and Exhibition attracts professionals from major offshore oil and gas exploration and production companies; major drilling contractors; major engineering contractors; supply and service companies; government and academia.

The exhibition showcases the advances being made in offshore technology, management, production and services. It provides a stimulating week for all involved in the industry where exhibitors can sell to a world-wide market.

Lord Provost of Aberdeen Peter Stephen said: "Aberdeen City Council recognises OE09 as an excellent opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to the oil and gas industry by creating a showcase for the area and its businesses.

"Offshore Europe, as one of the world's foremost oil and gas events, contributes hugely to this goal.

"In joint partnership with Aberdeenshire Council, we have a pavilion in a prime site position at the entrance to the main exhibition hall."

Aberdeen City Council's Corporate Director of Enterprise, Planning and Infrastructure Gordon McIntosh added: "As a global energy hub Aberdeen has to be able to attract and retain the best energy sector businesses and talent and equip our workforce with the skills needed to succeed within a fast-changing economic environment."

(GK/KMcA)