LINKS between Kent and Virginia have been strengthened by a new pact.

Kent Council Council leader Paul Carter and Tim Kaine, the Governor of Virginia, signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the medieval hall of Penshurst Place.

The agreement spells out six areas of co-operation, ranging from trade and business links, to more tourism and educational and cultural ties.

The deal builds on a similar memorandum signed in Richmond, Virginia, last June, by Governor Kaine’s predecessor Mark Warner and Lord Bruce-Lockhart, then KCC leader.

Since then, links have developed and both sides decided to publish an updated version ahead of next year’s launch of direct flights between Manston and Norfolk, Virginia, as well as the 400th anniversary of the first settlement of Jamestown by English venturers.

Democrat Governor Kaine welcomed the deal, saying that in spite of terrorist threats, Virginia would be encouraging its citizens to visit Kent and the UK.

He said: "We are very committed in Virginia to the notion that we’re not going to be successful by turning inward. We have to keep a positive and welcoming face to the world. The air links will be an indication of that desire to remain very open."

Cllr Carter said: "I’m very excited aboiut the opportunities that Virginia gives. We’ve made amazing progress in the last 18 months in forming a really significant relationship with one of the most successful states in North America.

"It’s now up to the Kent economy to use the introduction and networks we have established to make the most of these possibilities."