First Minister meeting with EU Ambassador to the UK
First Minister John Swinney will meet European Union Ambassador to the United Kingdom Pedro Serrano at Bute House on Wednesday 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 views both engagements as opportunities to reinforce the strong relationship that exists between Scotland and the EU.
He said: '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.'
Bute House PHOTO © 2024 The Edinburgh Reporter
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