The leaders of the Stormont Executive were arriving in Brussels today to put their seal on a new Stg£500,000-a-year office designed to spearhead Northern Ireland's interests in Europe.
Just yards from the front door of the European Parliament, the new offices will be a focal point for any Northern Ireland companies hoping to gain a foothold on the continent.
First Minister David Trimble and Deputy First Minister Mark Durkan were holding a series of high level meetings today with senior figures from both the European Parliament and European Commission.
But as the two men unveil a plaque at the new centre, there has already been some criticism from anti-Agreement unionists about its cost.
Members of Ian Paisley's Democratic Unionists have complained that it is costing much more than a similar office opened by the Scottish Parliament.
But those in favour have argued that it will ensure that Northern Ireland's interests are protected within the European Community.
Billions of pounds from Europe have been pumped into Northern Ireland to support infrastructure, social and community regeneration and business as part of the wider peace process.
But with this funding due to run out in 2004, an Executive spokesman said it was important that Northern Ireland continued to fight its corner.
``We no longer have Objective One status and a lot of things that came naturally through to us will no longer do so.
``We are using this office as a means to keep our eye on the ball. It keeps our people close to what is happening.''
The office, which has been used as a base by Stormont Ministers attending EC meetings, will also assist those behind Belfast's bid to become European City of Culture in 2008.
The spokesman said Northern Ireland's experience of emerging from 30 years of bitter conflict meant it had something to contribute to the rest of Europe.
``This is the first time there has been an accommodation of this sort between two warring communities. If we can make it work then the implications are huge for some of the Eastern European countries coming into the community.''
The office was finally opened last May after a period of political instability in the North delayed arrangements.
It currently has four full-time staff, but this will increase to six when two experts in inward investment join the team.
PA