This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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St Andrew's Day Message 2005
29/11/2005
Scotland is growing in confidence and prosperity after six years of devolved government, First Minister Jack McConnell says in a St Andrew's Message for 2005 that is being circulated to embassies and consulates around the world.
Read the full text of the FM's message
The FM notes that Scotland has become a net importer of people, indicating that the country has become an extremely attractive place to live and work.
He says:
"Scotland has made striking advances over the last few decades - and devolution has given us the tools and the self confidence to make the right decisions for our country's future."
A One Scotland ceilidh on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh tomorrow is the centrepiece of national celebrations on St Andrew's Day.
Other events run by ex-patriate Scots are planned around the world from Abuja in Nigeria to Zagreb in Croatia.