Swinney travels to Dublin for meeting with Ireland’s new president

John Swinney is seeking to “strengthen” ties between Scotland and Ireland as he becomes the first head of government to meet the country’s new president.

The Scottish First Minister is travelling to Dublin on Tuesday, and will undertake a series of engagements while in the capital.

As part of that, he will meet President Catherine Connolly at her official residence, Aras an Uachtarain.

In addition to meeting the new Irish president, the First Minister will also meet Taoiseach Micheal Martin and, together with Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, will launch an updated bilateral framework which aims to boost the strong partnership that already exists between the two nations.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Swinney said: “I look forward to visiting Dublin to help strengthen Scottish Irish relations.

“In particular, I am honoured to be meeting with President Connolly and congratulating her on her election victory on behalf of the people of Scotland.”

The First Minister added: “Ireland holds a special place in Scotland’s priorities, and we have much to gain by working together.

“During my visit, I look forward to jointly launching an updated framework for shared co-operation with the Irish Government.

“This builds on the great progress that has been achieved since the last framework was launched four years ago, and I’m sure our partnership will continue to go from strength to strength as a result of the actions within this new one.”

He added: “Ireland is a close friend of ours and this visit provides a key opportunity for Scotland to engage with our friends and partners on the shared interests of both countries.”