THE Northern Echo has agreed to be the official media partner for a leading business and technology partnering event for a second year.

Following the success of InterTech 2003, the newspaper has joined forces with a number of organisations in the region to work towards making InterTech 2004 a platform for the North-East to showcase its talent worldwide.

Mike Parker, Business Editor of The Northern Echo, said: "InterTech 2003 was a great success and did wonders for the image of the North-East, which is why the leading morning newspaper in the region is offering its support to the event."

The North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) has confirmed it is also backing the event.

Brendan Murphy, NECC international trade director, said: "Our involvement in last year's event meant we had no hesitation in becoming partners in this year's event.

"InterTech will provide a great opportunity for our members, particularly those with specialist skills, to meet businesses from across the globe to build relationships with potential international partners."

Phil Eadon, project director for Intertech 2004, said: " I am delighted to welcome the North East Chamber of Commerce to InterTech 2004. I hope that a number of their members who operate in the high-tech sectors of business will take advantage of this unique business opportunity."

More than 400 people from 12 countries took part in a series of meetings and presentations at County Hall in Durham last year. This year's event again takes place in Durham City and will be held on October 11 and 12.

For more information, visit www.intertech2004.com