A PARTNERSHIP agreement has been signed to help Nottingham forge links with the Russian state of Krasnodar.

The relationship was cemented at a ceremony at the MIPIM property investment fair on the French Riviera, where the leader of Nottingham City Council, Jon Collins and Mayor of the city of Krasnodar, Vladimir L. Evlanov, signed an agreement following close collaboration over recent months.

Coun Collins said: "This agreement has the potential to be hugely beneficial for both parties.

"There will first be a sharing of expertise and ideas, which should develop into investment opportunities and stronger economic links."

Mayor Evlanov added: "I am delighted to have the opportunity to strengthen the relationship with our friends and colleagues from Nottingham.

"Signing the partnership agreement is the next stage in developing firm friendships and economic links."

Lorraine Baggs, inward investment manager for Invest in Nottingham, said: "We have been talking about formalising our collaboration for many months. Both Nottingham and Krasnodar already have strong economic, civic and cultural partnerships with Karlsruhe in Germany and we hope that we can replicate that success for Nottingham."

Team Nottingham – the Notts delegates – were present at the ceremony.

Matthew Hannah, of Innes England, said: "Krasnador is blessed with outstanding natural resources and Nottingham has a wealth of expertise in development.

"I'll be seeking out their investment manager for a chat before long."