This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Microsoft Forum on way to Scotland
20/09/2006
Microsoft's annual Government Leaders' Forum is to be staged in Edinburgh this January, it was announced today.
First Minister Jack McConnell described it as a 'tribute both to Scotland and devolution'.
The event provides a platform for Prime Ministers, Ministers, EU Commissioners and policy advisers from across Europe to consider the contribution that cutting-edge technology can make to education, governance and economic development.
Working sessions will be held in the Scottish Parliament and the event is likely to include a devolution theme as well as discussions on how to bring the EU and its institutions closer to the people of Europe.
Mr McConnell said:
"I am delighted that Microsoft has invited the Scottish Executive to act as host government to the Forum. We have worked very closely with the Scottish Parliament, as host venue, and Microsoft in bringing this event to Scotland and I look forward to working in partnership with them over the coming months to ensure that the event is a success.
"The decision to hold this prestigious event at Holyrood is a tribute both to Scotland and to devolution.
"For three days leading figures from Microsoft, along with some of Europe's most influential political leaders will see all that is good about modern Scotland. I hope they will all be impressed by the real difference devolution is making to the lives of ordinary Scots.
"Scotland has already proved it is more than capable of staging events of global significance, including the G8 Summit and the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy.
"And in January, the conference will see the eyes of Europe focus on Scotland. It will be a tremendous opportunity to forge new links and build relationships that will benefit Scotland for generations to come."
"Keeping pace with developments in information and communications technology is essential to Scotland's future prosperity. We must ensure that Scottish firms remain at the forefront of the IT industry, and that we maximise the opportunities to use new technologies to help people engage with government, in all its forms. I hope this event will provide inspiration and momentum to all those involved in taking this agenda forward in Scotland."
It is expected that between 300 and 350 invited delegates from across Europe will attend. The line up of keynote speakers and presenters will be announced closer to the event along with details of the conference agenda.
Previous GLF Europe speakers have included the Hon Jos Manuel Barroso, President, European Commission and the Honourable Jos S crates, Prime Minister, Portugal, and Bill Gates, Microsoft chairman.
The 2007 forum will be the fourth time the annual event has been held in Europe: Lisbon (2006), Prague (2005) and Rome (2003).