Swinney speaks directly to Trump for first time in introductory call
The First Minister says they talked about economic ties between the countries, but nothing specifically about tariffs.
Last updated 10th Dec 2024
Scotland's First Minister has congratulated President-elect Donald Trump during their first direct call since the US election.
John Swinney outlined how they talked about economic ties between the countries, but nothing specifically about tariffs.
Speaking to our Political Editor Alan Smith, Swinney said they spoke about golf and Trump expressed his "admiration for Scotland."
He said: "I had a phone call earlier this evening with President-elect Trump, in which I congratulated him on his election as president of the United States.
"We discussed the ties that exist between Scotland and the United States and I set out the importance that we attach of the economic connections particularly around the Scotch Whisky industry.
"He expressed his admiration for Scotland, the character and the identity of the country."
Swinney also said Trump didn't give him any details of any planned visits to Scotland.
The First Minister added: "I raised the importance of the whisky industry for Scotland and the export markets in the United States.
"It is vital that I convey the importance of the industry to Scotland and I've done that tonight.
"President-elect Trump never gave me any details of his plans, but he indicated a great warmth for Scotland, his willingness and his enthusiasm to come visit Scotland."