First Minister will meet European Union
Ambassador to the United Kingdom Pedro Serrano at Bute House
today (11 June) to discuss the challenges and opportunities to
arise from the recent deal between the UK and the EU.
They will be joined by the Slovenian Ambassador Sanja Štiglic and
Bulgarian Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev, as part of a delegation
to Scotland. Later today the First Minister will also meet the
Minister-President of Flanders at an event to celebrate 25 years
of Flemish trade and investment in Scotland.
The First Minister said he viewed both engagements as
opportunities to reinforce the strong relationship that exists
between Scotland and the EU. He commented:
“The European Union is one of our most important economic and
security partners. While the deal struck on the 19 May represents
long-overdue progress in rebuilding our relationship, no
agreement can deliver the economic, social and security benefits
we lost with Brexit in 2020.
“That is why I firmly believe Scotland's best future lies as an
independent country within the EU. More than ever, the current
uncertain economic and geopolitical environment reinforces the
importance of Scotland having the security, stability and
opportunity that comes with EU membership.
“In the meantime we will continue to engage with nations and
regions across Europe to maximise opportunities through trade,
investment, innovation and academia. As we enter the next phase
of negotiations, we stand ready to be closely involved as the UK
Government develops its future priorities for working with the
EU.”
