Scottish Secretary to travel abroad to strengthen defence ties and increase trade
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander will make a major visit to the Indo-Pacific region in the coming days, with the aim of strengthening defense ties and boosting trade with Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. Next week’s itinerary includes meetings with government and business leaders; It predicts that this move will create new opportunities for Scottish companies in these key markets.
Beyond strengthening economic ties, Mr. Alexander is expected to explore potential collaborations in military shipbuilding and advanced defense manufacturing. The visit underlines the dual focus on boosting Scottish exports and attracting significant inward investment back to Scotland.
A notable aspect of the trip is that the Scottish Secretary will add a cultural dimension to diplomatic efforts by attending two international shows of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo planned for Auckland and Brisbane.
The Scotland Office noted that Mr Alexander will soon become the first Scottish Secretary to visit New Zealand, highlighting the historical significance of the journey.
Speaking ahead of the trade delegation, Mr Alexander emphasized the purpose of his trip: “This visit is to raise our voices on behalf of Scottish businesses and Scottish exporters.” He also said: “Scotland benefits from the power, access and connections that come with being part of the United Kingdom.”
He stressed the importance of international alliances amid current global uncertainties, stating that “standing shoulder to shoulder” with the UK’s closest allies has “never been more important”. This, he explained, was to explore “how we can deepen our defense cooperation and work together to keep people safe.”
Mr Alexander also pledged to support Scottish business, adding: “I too will beat the drum for Scottish business. From whiskey and seafood to financial services and renewable energy technology, Scotland has world-class products and expertise in demand in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore.” He concluded that the visit was “an opportunity to open the doors to Scottish exporters, attract investment that creates economic growth and well-paid jobs, and demonstrate that Scotland is open for business on a global stage”.
