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Homecoming 2009
17/09/2008
Delegates at the English-Speaking Union (ESU) World Members' Conference in Edinburgh were today invited to return to Scotland for Homecoming 2009.
The ESU is an international education charity to promote international understanding and friendship through use of the English language. Its conference attracted 220 delegtaes from 31 countries.
In a speech, First Minister Alex Salmond said:
"This year marks the 90th anniversary of the foundation of the English-Speaking Union.
"The Scottish Government recognises the importance of the Union's work in promoting international understanding by encouraging young people to learn the skills of debating and public speaking.
"Debating is something that Scotland has historically been good at. I was delighted to see that a new generation of Scots were strengthening our reputation this weekend at the World Schools Debating Championships in Washington DC, where they reached the semi-finals of the competition.
"Intellectual discourse in Scotland has helped to shape the views of statesmen and scientists around the world. In 2009 we will be celebrating Scottish innovation and achievements as part of our year of Homecoming.
"I would like to invite delegates to return in 2009 for what promises to be an extraordinary celebration of Scotland's great contribution to the world."