26 June 2018
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon completed a packed programme of engagements in the German capital of Berlin yesterday, focused on promoting and increasing Scotland’s economic, cultural and political links with Germany.
The First Minister visited the Mayor of Berlin, Michael Muller, to discuss joint working and future cooperation around the co-hosted European Championships, being held in Glasgow and Berlin in August.
Welcome @NicolaSturgeon! Die Erste Ministerin Schottlands ist heute in Berlin und spricht mit #MichaelMüller unter anderem über Pläne für ein neues schottisches Büro in Berlin und den #Brexit @ScotGovFM pic.twitter.com/EL6yzOBSZz
— Der Regierende Bürgermeister von Berlin (@RegBerlin) June 25, 2018
She then held discussions with Niels Annen, Germany’s Minister of State at the Foreign Office – the first ministerial meeting between the Scottish Government and the new German administration.
FM @NicolaSturgeon met German foreign office minister @NielsAnnen today – 1st ministerial meeting between @ScotGov and newly formed German Government – as part of busy day of business & political engagements in ??#Berlin #Germany pic.twitter.com/WP9ZkrPbBL
— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) June 25, 2018
The First Minister was in Berlin alongside a delegation of 12 Scottish companies, organised by Scottish Development International. The businesses are all seeking to grow their trade in the German marketplace, or break into the country for the first time.
Nicola Sturgeon hosted a roundtable meeting with a group of German investors, before a jointly host a business reception in partnership with the German Chambers of Commerce.
Um ihren Besuch abzurunden hat @ScotGovFM @NicolaSturgeon zu schottischen und deutschen Firmen bei einer Berliner IHK Rezeption gesprochen. #berlin @ihkberlin #ScotlandIsNow pic.twitter.com/lP1FxTJ95c
— Scot Hub Germany (@ScotHubGermany) June 25, 2018
Reflecting on the opportunities and importance of greater trade links with Germany, the First Minister said:
Germany is Scotland’s fourth largest export market – with exports worth almost £2 billion annually. The trade mission of Scottish businesses visiting Germany this week offers invaluable opportunities to further improve trade relationships.
“My government is determined to build on the strong relations between Scotland and Germany, as demonstrated by the new Scottish Hub, which opened in the British Embassy in Berlin earlier this year. It will further raise Scotland’s profile in Germany, promoting greater economic and cultural ties.”