A council has defended seeking investment from Saudi Arabia after recent criticism.
Newcastle's links to the Gulf state have been a major talking point since the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) took over Newcastle United in 2021.
Newcastle City Council chief executive Pam Smith, who was part of a UK delegation to Riyadh last May, said not pursuing investment opportunities from Saudi Arabia would be "narrowing what you can do for residents" on Tyneside.
She said any potential moves could help "make Newcastle where it should be". The PIF has been approached for comment.