SCOTLAND'S KEY RELATIONSHIPS IN EUROPEAN AFFAIRS
Scotland's interests in the European Union are best promoted and protected through strong relationships which engender good communication, mutual trust and respect. There are a number of key levels at which the Government will focus on building and developing solid relationships.
On the domestic level a constructive relationship with the UK Government is vital as it is the UK Government that represents the UK's interests as a whole in Europe. Good relationships with the devolved administrations also help to strengthen Scotland's position in areas where the interests of the devolved administrations coincide and in ensuring that the UK Government negotiating lines reflect these interests.
At European level the Government's objective is to strengthen its direct relationships with the European Commission, European Parliament and European Council, using these relationships to promote Scotland's national identity and interests.