More than 400 business people from all backgrounds attended the official launch of the Asian business Federation (ABF) into North and West Lancashire.

The aim of the event is to highlight the importance of understanding diversity to help boost the economy.

Invited Guests were welcomed the City's Mayor Coun Niel Cartwright and Tahir Mohsin, Chairman of the ABF.

Keynote speeches on the night were Professor Monder Ram, of De Montfort University and Yvonne Thompson, MD of ASP Communications Ltd.

Speaking on the night Professor Monder Ram who is a leading authority on Ethnic minority business explained the dilemmas faced by EM businesses, the problems they face accessing support, finance, training and contracts. He

explained that diversity was a broader issue that looked at the demographics, workforce, suppliers, and cultures.

Tahir Mohsin, lay down a challenge to his team at the ABF to attain the same level of success they had achieved in other parts of the county.

The ABF now represents more than 700 businesses across Lancashire, from small enterprises to major manufacturers - and over the past 12 months has assisted nearly 850 businesses.

The event was supported by Business Link West Lancashire and there was a message of support from Clive Memmot, the Chief Executive of the organisation who said, "It is in the interests of the local economy that we all work together, we fully support the work that the ABF is doing, and we believe that if they succeed we will also succeed in helping businesses to develop and grow."

Khalid Saifullah Chief Executive of the ABF said, "The aim of the event was to enhance the perception and understanding of diversity.

"The ABF believes the foundation of a unified and tolerant society is a vibrant local economy. The event highlighted the important role Ethnic minority businesses PLAY in growing and sustaining our regional economy while creating wealth and opportunities for many more people."

The event was sponsored by Business Link