Nicola Sturgeon unveils plans for Washington visit

NICOLA Sturgeon has unveiled plans to visit the US next month as part of a drive promote trans-Atlantic trade with Scotland.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will visit New York and Washington DC as part of her US visit. Picture: Julie Bull

The First Minister will be in New York and Washington to undertake a number of business engagements highlighting Scotland’s success in attracting US investment.

It emerged recently that investment in Scotland from the US is at its highest level in a decade and that Scotland’s global profile in 2014 led to increased interest amongst US investors.

The First Minister will also attend meetings at the World Bank, IMF and address the Council on Foreign Relations.

“It is so important that Scotland continues to build our reputation right around the world,” Ms Sturgeon said today.

“Ernst and Young’s latest Attractiveness Survey showed that 2014 was Scotland’s most successful year in the past decade for attracting US investments, and that we are continuing to hold our own as an attractive location for foreign investment in an increasingly competitive global market.

“I am determined that this must continue, which is why I will be meeting companies already investing in Scotland and showcasing the very best Scotland has to offer to potential new investors.”

The First Minister’s visit will also focus on a number of key Scottish Government priorities including health, education and tackling inequality.

She added: “As part of my visit I am also looking forward to learning from the experience of New York and Washington DC particularly in raising attainment, addressing inequality and discussing with the World Bank and IMF how to build the link between economic growth and inequality.”