Scotland and the new north

Investing in a low carbon future can bring significant opportunities for northern nations, the First Minister has set out in an address at the Arctic Circle Assembly.

Speaking at the annual gathering in Reykjavik, which is attended by governments and organisations with an interest in the Arctic region, Nicola Sturgeon set out her vision for greater economic collaboration among countries in northern Europe.

With arctic nations already accounting for half of the top ten sources of foreign investment into Scotland, as well three of the Scotland’s six largest export markets, the First Minister has said there are ‘clear benefits’ in forging even closer ties.

She also highlighted that she will host Scotland’s first-ever Arctic Circle Forum in Edinburgh this November.

The First Minister said:

“Action on climate change is, first and foremost, an overwhelming moral imperative –  and Scotland is leading the way internationally in combatting it. Yet with Scotland employing almost 60,000 people in low carbon industries, there is still scope for significant further growth. Our northern nation neighbours are obvious partners in this.

“Scotland is taking an increasingly prominent role in the work of the Arctic Circle Assembly and associated cooperation, and I believe there are clear benefits for us all by forming closer ties. That is why I look forward to welcoming representatives from across the region to the Edinburgh forum next month.

“I am determined that Scotland will remain an open, internationalist, outward looking nation. Strengthening our role in the Arctic Circle is an important part of that.”

Background

The Scottish Government will host the next Arctic Circle Forum, Scotland and the New North, which takes place 19-21 November in Edinburgh, with a focus on innovation, science and sustainable development.

Read in full the First Minister's speech to the Arctic Circle Assembly, or watch the video.