First Minister meets EU Ambassadors

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today briefed EU Ambassadors on the Scottish Government’s ongoing work to protect Scotland’s place in Europe.

The First Minister spoke at a lunch for EU Ambassadors in London, hosted by the Slovakian Ambassador to the UK Lubomir Rehak. Cabinet Secretary for Europe Fiona Hyslop also attended.

The meeting follows the publication yesterday of the Scottish Government’s document explaining the distinct historical, political and legal reasons why Scotland’s voice needs to be heard in Europe.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:

“This was an opportunity to engage with EU Ambassadors on our work to protect Scotland’s place in Europe and to reiterate our clear position that the 180,000 EU nationals living in Scotland are welcome and valued.

“All of those European citizens – as well as those living in other parts of the UK – should be given an assurance by the UK Government without any further delay that their residency status here is secure.

“Today’s meeting was a chance to reinforce the message that Scotland voted overwhelmingly to remain in Europe, and that the Scottish Government is determined to explore all avenues to ensure our future as a European nation.

“To that end, we will publish our specific proposals to protect Scotland’s interests and maintain our relationship with Europe shortly, and we will continue to engage with EU partners to ensure that our distinctive voice is heard throughout Europe.”