Scotland’s First Minister has met with the President of the United States during his visit to Aberdeenshire.
John Swinney welcomed Donald Trump to MacLeod House on the Menie Estate ahead of the official opening of a second golf course at Trump International.
The meeting marked a rare opportunity to raise Scotland’s priorities on one of the world’s highest stages.
Mr Swinney pressed for urgent economic protections for Scotland’s whisky and salmon sectors, including an exemption from the 10 per cent tariff currently applied to UK exports to the US.
He described this as a window of opportunity to secure fair treatment for industries that have long been part of Scotland’s story.
The First Minister also turned to the escalating humanitarian crises unfolding overseas.
He implored the President to use his influence to help bring an end to what he described as the unbearable, unjust and inhumane situation in Gaza.
He called for immediate steps to protect civilians and secure a lasting ceasefire.
Mr Swinney reaffirmed Scotland’s steadfast support for Ukraine and urged President Trump to stand firm in defending democracy and peace against Russian aggression.
He stressed Scotland’s belief that the principles of freedom and equality must extend to all people facing violence and oppression.
The First Minister also presented a proposal to introduce US Customs pre‑clearance facilities at Edinburgh Airport.
He said such a move would demonstrate the strength of Scotland’s enduring partnership with the United States and improve links between the two nations.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Swinney said he was proud to represent Scotland’s interests and values directly to the President.
He expressed hope that continued dialogue would support both economic opportunity and a more peaceful world.
“During our discussions, I was able to represent the interests and values of Scotland directly with the President,” he said.
“I urged him to make the case for tariff exemptions for our world class whisky and salmon sector and I believe there is now a window of opportunity to take this forward.”
“I also implored the President to use his immense influence to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to help make the ideals of equality and freedom a reality for the people of Ukraine.”
The meeting came after Mr Swinney signalled ahead of the visit that he would raise global humanitarian issues with the US leader.
He said Scotland stands ready to work with international partners to ease suffering and build peace wherever it is needed most.
