Europe Day 2023: letter to EU Ambassador to the UK
Letter from Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture to European Union Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Pedro Serrano.
To:
H.E Mr Pedro Serrano, Head of Delegation and Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom, Europe House, 32 Smith Square, London SW1P 3EU
Copy:
H.E. Mr José Pascual Marco Martínez, Ambassador of Spain to the United Kingdom
H.E. Ms Mikaela Kumlin Granit, Ambassador of Sweden to the United Kingdom
Date: 9 May 2023
Dear Mr Serrano
I am delighted to write to you on Europe Day, recognising the importance of European unity and cooperation and the EU’s foundation as a peace project. Events over the last 15 months and Russia’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine have reminded us again why that peace and cooperation is so precious.
The UK Government and Scottish Government are at one in relation to policy on Ukraine and we seek co-operation between our two governments wherever possible. However, we have different, honestly held views on Brexit and future relations with the EU, which is why it is so important for Scotland to join our neighbours across the continent in reaffirming our shared European values.
I was very pleased to hear about the positive meeting you had recently with the new First Minister of Scotland. As the First Minister reaffirmed at your meeting, this Scottish Government believes the best future for Scotland is to be an independent country and member of the EU, achieved through an agreed constitutional, legal process. Until that point in time, we will seek to align with the EU where appropriate and in a manner that contributes towards maintaining and advancing standards across a range of policy areas, safeguarding the prosperity and wellbeing of the people of Scotland and maintaining Scotland’s inclusive, outward-facing reputation.
As one of a number of events we are organising to mark Europe Day, I made a statement to the Scottish Parliament today reiterating our commitment to EU alignment. I am also taking the opportunity to issue the enclosed document, setting out of the Scottish Government’s priorities in relation to the EU’s strategic priorities and the Commission Work Programme for 2023. This paper highlights opportunities for alignment where this might be possible and in line with Scotland’s priorities. We will continue building the strongest possible relationships with our European partners and contribute to EU priorities underpinned by the values we share.
I look forward to our continued cooperation and hope to meet with you soon to discuss our shared priorities.
I am copying to Ambassadors to the UK representing the current and next EU presidency.
Yours sincerely,
Angus Robertson
Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture
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