Scotland at the World Cup provides chance to raise country’s profile

Scotland’s national team heading to next year’s World Cup will provide a “special opportunity to raise Scotland’s profile on the global stage”, the First Minister is expected to say.

Addressing an event hosted by the Scottish Chambers of Commerce on Thursday, John Swinney will urge businesses to work with the Government to take advantage of the side’s place at the competition.

Scotland beat Denmark 4-2 in a thriller at Hampden last week to secure the team’s first place at the men’s competition since 1998.

The First Minister is expected to say: “We know that Scotland’s economy has benefited hugely from hosting sporting spectacles like the Commonwealth Games, UCI Cycling Championships, the Open Championships, and the Island Games.

“But Scotland’s first participation in the World Cup since 1998 provides a particularly special opportunity to raise Scotland’s profile on the global stage, and boost our reputation as a hub for trade and tourism.

“And I want every single one of you in this room – airports, restaurants, exporter, importers, universities, colleges, and local chambers of commerce – to work with me to explore how we can maximise the economic opportunity of Scotland’s participation in the World Cup, and showcase all that we have to offer to the world stage.”

Mr Swinney is also expected to speak of his optimism for Scotland’s economy, particularly after credit ratings given by international agencies Moody’s and Standard and Poors, telling businesses: “We continue to make progress, and build the foundations we need for our future economic success.

“Earlier this month, two of the world’s most distinguished credit ratings agencies give Scotland the highest possible credit rating under current circumstances.

“Reflect on that for a moment. Two independent, international agencies, using different methodologies, have come to that same conclusion. They have placed us ahead of many much larger global economies – including Spain, Japan, and Italy.

“This is an extremely positive step towards raising Scotland’s profile in the international capital markets, and demonstrating that we are serious about becoming a more investor friendly destination.”

Moody’s gave the country an AA rating, while S&P Global provided an Aa3 award, both the same as the UK as a whole, but warned a growing possibility of Scotland’s independence could damage the ratings.