First Minister says United States remains one of
Scotland's closest partners.
Scotland will have “a platform to make its voice heard” during
the visit of the President of the United States, First Minister
has said.
Speaking ahead of President Trump's arrival, Mr Swinney said the
global attention the visit will receive provides Scotland with an
opportunity to respectfully demonstrate the principles of freedom
and justice for all, while also promoting Scotland's tourism
sector and economic investment potential.
First Minister said:
“Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that
goes back centuries. That partnership remains steadfast through
economic, cultural and ancestral links – including of course,
with the President himself.
“As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will
be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a
platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter,
including war and peace, justice and democracy.
“It also includes the millions of Americans – many of them
potential future tourists or investors in Scotland – who will
watch their elected President as he visits our country.
“As First Minister it is my responsibility to advance our
interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant
importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are
witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland's voice is heard at the
highest levels of government across the world. That is exactly
what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time
in Scotland.
“We are a proud democratic nation, a country that stands firm on
the principles of equality and freedom for all, and a society
that stands up for a fair and just world. The right to peaceful
demonstration is something we cherish, and everyone has the
democratic right to protect and express their views in a
peaceful, and democratic manner. That is right and proper.
“I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do
Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should – peacefully and
lawfully. I am also confident that Scotland's police service can
handle the challenge of keeping all our communities safe and, as
they must, in maintaining the appropriate security any US
President requires.
“This weekend is a landmark moment in our relationship with the
United States, and I am certain it will be remembered for
Scotland showing the world the very best of itself.”
Notes to editors
The Scottish Government has been working collaboratively on
arrangements with partners including Police Scotland on the visit
of the President of the United States.
There are plans for the First Minister to meet with the President
when he is in Scotland. Further details will be confirmed in due
course.
