Scotland will welcome the President of the United States this weekend, with First Minister John Swinney saying the visit offers a rare chance for Scotland’s voice to be heard on the global stage.
The First Minister described the centuries‑old friendship between Scotland and the United States, bound by economic, cultural and ancestral ties, as a relationship that remains “steadfast”, noting that many of those links include the President himself.
Mr Swinney said the visit will shine a spotlight on Scotland’s tourism and investment potential, while also allowing the nation to express its principles of justice, democracy and peace to the world.
“Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that goes back centuries,” the First Minister said.
“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.”
He added that his role as First Minister is to advance Scotland’s interests, raise humanitarian concerns and ensure the country’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government.
“That is exactly what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time in Scotland,” he said.
The First Minister also underlined Scotland’s commitment to equality, freedom and peaceful protest, noting that demonstrations are expected during the visit and urging that they be conducted lawfully and respectfully.
“I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should, peacefully and lawfully,” he said.
“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.”
He described the weekend as a landmark moment in Scotland’s relationship with the United States and an opportunity for the country to show the very best of itself to the world.
