Robert Sheffrin, director of pro·manchester, said: “Manchester is a modern business capital and it is testament to our profile and expertise that LA has chosen to form a ‘friendship’ agreement with us, ahead of any other UK city."

“With an energetic business community of 241,000, there will be plenty of opportunities for Manchester companies to partner with LA firms and organisations to cement our links further."

“Our city’s economic prosperity relies on exploiting overseas opportunities and attracting overseas companies to invest in our city region. pro·manchester has strong international ties – with economies such as China and India – and we will be capitalising on our twinning with LA to ensure we continue to forge links with major cities worldwide.

“It is vitally important to develop international links and pro·manchester will be playing an active role in ensuring we are at the forefront as Manchester and LA work together to strengthen our economies.”