Maintaining Scotland’s international outlook could be “vital” in helping the country’s economy, External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson has said.
With the UK facing recession, the minister stressed the importance of Scotland seeking to “look outwards, learn from others and do all we can to attract investment and opportunities to Scotland”.
To help with this, he pledged the Scottish Government’s nine international offices will continue to work with enterprise agencies to try to win more investment, jobs and opportunities for Scotland.
With the UK economy entering recession and the continuing impact of Brexit on the economy, jobs and trade, it is vital we continue to look outwards— External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson
The work comes after the 2022 EY Attractiveness Survey saw Scotland declared the most successful nation or region in the UK outside London when it comes to attracting foreign direct investment.
Mr Robertson’s comments came as he insisted the country will continue to be a “good global citizen” and play an active role in addressing worldwide challenges.
He said: “We are determined that Scotland continues to be a good global citizen and makes a constructive contribution to addressing global challenges.
“Our international activity creates opportunities at home, broadens horizons, attracts high-quality investment and ultimately benefits Scotland’s people and communities.”
Mr Robertson said the “landmark” opening in 2022 of a Scottish Government hub in Copenhagen, Denmark, will “enhance Scotland’s economic and cultural visibility in the Nordic region and enable us to benefit from the experience of Nordic governments in delivering our net zero transition and tackling inequality”.
He added that a further hub will be opened in Warsaw in Poland before the next Holyrood elections to support the “cultural links between Scotland and central Europe”.
The External Affairs Secretary added: “The international network is instrumental in attracting inward investment and creating domestic opportunities.
“With the UK economy entering recession and the continuing impact of Brexit on the economy, jobs and trade, it is vital we continue to look outwards, learn from others and do all we can to attract investment and opportunities to Scotland and grow our economy sustainably.
“On trade and investment, net zero transition, higher education, tourism, culture and people-to-people links, our international network will play a vital role next year in helping Scotland build a greener, fairer, wealthier economy and all the benefits that will bring to families, communities and businesses across the country.”
