The new economic envoy to the North arrived in Belfast Monday less than 72 hours after being appointed.

Declan Kelly, a well-known and popular businessman in New York, said his appointment underscored US President Barack Obama’s commitment to the North.

Kelly, who was accompanied by the new U.S. ambassador to Britain, Louis Sussman, said he would leave no stone unturned in his quest for continued investment in the North.

American companies have invested more than €934 million ($1.4m) since 2002 and now employ 14,000 people.

“That is something I want to build on,” said Mr Kelly. “This is going to be a long-term investment of time in this region and I am confident that by the time we have done we will have made a difference.”

“This is a very important moment in the relationship between our two peoples. The Secretary of State of the United States is 100 percent committed to this region.”

“My job is to be here as frequently, as often as I can to promote trade and investment between our countries and to make sure no stone is left unturned to ensure continued investment in Northern Ireland,” he said.

He said Mrs Clinton would visit the North soon. “She is overwhelmingly committed to this area," he said.