London’s promotional agency London & Partners today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Vancouver Economic Commission (VEC) which will see the two cities share lessons and knowledge on hosting an Olympic Games and how best to utilise the economic impact for future business development.

Signed at the Vancouver Convention Centre during an Olympic Legacy gala as part of the Cities Summit 2012 the MOU will provide a platform for the two cities not only to share knowledge but exchange ideas on legacy projects, future large events and learning in different fields including sustainable development, urban planning and tourism.

Gordon Innes, CEO of London & Partners said: “This memorandum signifies a very clear ambition for London to use the Olympics as a real catalyst to learn, share and change our great city. London & Partners is determined to use the experiences we glean from 2012 to benefit London’s offering so we can make London an even more attractive city to future visitors. And we are also keen to ensure we share our insights with those other global cities across the world - including previous and future Olympic host cities such as Vancouver.”

Lee Malleau, CEO of the Vancouver Economic Commission, said: "The VEC is extremely pleased to sign this international business agreement with London & Partners. Reaching beyond our city, to work with other dynamic global cities, is part of best practice in today's 21st Century environment of conducting effective trade and investment. Working with other host Olympic cities like London builds on a platform of synergies that already exist, and it makes sense. It's one of the best ways to help our companies access other global markets."

Pictured (L-R): Gordon Innes and Lee Malleau sign the MOU