First Minister John Swinney has celebrated the “strong friendship” between Scotland and the US ahead of Donald Trump‘s five-day visit, beginning today.
Mr Swinney said a partnership between the two countries “goes back centuries” and has remained “steadfast through economic, cultural and ancestral links”, including that of the US President, whose mother was raised in Lewis, in Scotland’s western isles.
“As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage,” he said.
“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.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
