London mayor Boris Johnson has secured a new two-year tourism deal with New York counterpart, Michael Bloomberg, designed to boost tourism between the two cities.

The agreement will see London and New York provide outdoor advertising space to help each other promote travel, while the cities' tourism agencies - Visit London and NYC & Company - will share best practices to maximise tourism opportunities.

It is hoped that the deal can capitalise on the existing levels of tourism between the two cities, with nearly 2 million Americans visiting London in 2008 and more than 1.3 million UK residents travelling to New York.

Johnson said: "London and New York City share many similarities, including a strong sense of optimism and determination, along with a great appreciation for diversity and innovation.

"Our common cultural ties, not least absolute dedication to providing world-class services and experiences for both residents and visitors, make the two cities exceptionally well poised to combine knowledge as well as resources to impact the economies and future of the cities."

Bloomberg added: "New York City and London - both significant sources of travel for each other market - can learn a great deal from one other and we will work together to highlight each other's strengths and remain leading global cities."

Image: Spencer Tucker, Office of Mayor Bloomberg