HIGH LEVEL EUROPEAN BI-LATERAL VISITS
As a nation in Europe it is important for Scotland and Scottish Ministers to not only engage with the EU but also directly with other European countries. The advantages of this are numerous, there is much Scotland can both learn from its European neighbours and share with them in respect of expertise and experience.
High level visits between ministers, ambassadors and politicians can often act as the first point of contact for identifying projects on which joint efforts or the exchange of knowledge will bring benefits to both nations. Moreover, these visits are another vehicle through which Scottish Ministers can promote Scotland's identity and interests.
While the Government has identified building relations with countries in the 'arc of prosperity' (Norway, Finland, Iceland, Ireland and Denmark) as particularly beneficial to Scotland, Ministers are keen to play their role in building contacts with any country on any project where there will be significant benefits for Scotland.