Sturgeon to discuss Brexit vote with EU nationals
Nicola Sturgeon will meet EU nationals living in Scotland in an attempt to provide ''reassurance and certainty'' in the wake of the Brexit vote.
The public meeting in Edinburgh will be the first time EU nationals have been given the opportunity to discuss the result with senior politicians, the Scottish Government said.
The First Minister said EU migrants have brought a wealth of social, economic and cultural benefits to Scotland and remain ''very welcome''.
Ms Sturgeon travelled to Germany last week to meet ministers as she continues to work to build Scotland's future relationship with the EU following the Leave vote on June 23.
Almost 500 people from dozens of countries have signed up to attend the Edinburgh Corn Exchange event and will have the chance to discuss the implications of the EU referendum result.
Ms Sturgeon said: ''Scotland spoke loudly and clearly when it delivered an unequivocal vote to remain in the EU. It is my duty as First Minister to speak on behalf of all Scottish citizens, including those who have chosen to come from other parts of the EU and make Scotland their home. They have brought a wealth of social, economic and cultural benefits and have enriched our society. And as I said on the day after the referendum, they remain very welcome here. My Cabinet and I are determined to provide reassurance and certainty, wherever we can, to those who have come to Scotland and have contributed so valuably. Our priority is to protect Scotland's interests, and the interests of everyone living, working and studying here. That's why I, alongside my Cabinet, am considering all possible options to protect Scotland's continuing relationship with and place in Europe for future generations.''