WIREDGOV

Scottish businesses should take advantage of opportunities overseas as key economies in Europe and the United States emerge from recession, John Swinney said today.

The Finance Secretary was speaking to more than 100 GlobalScots - senior business leaders with an affinity for Scotland who want to contribute to its economic success - at a conference in Glasgow.

He said:

"In the current climate, we must maximise opportunities to position Scotland's economy for recovery. With the US economy growing again, as well as economies of key European nations, it is vital that GlobalScots open doors for Scottish companies across the world and promote Scotland as a great place to do business.

"We have seen many examples of the very positive contribution GlobalScots can make. For example, they have helped a Scottish life sciences company secure meetings with decision makers in large US pharmaceutical organisations and run seminars for Scottish firms on setting up business in the US.

"Such actions have the potential to encourage inward investment in Scotland and help Scottish companies expand internationally, particularly when cautious optimism is returning to the business community.

"We know conditions in the global economy have improved since the end of the first quarter of this year, and the rate of decline in Scottish GDP has eased.

"But while the UK economy remains in recession there is no room for complacency. That is why the Scottish Government will continue to work with all of those with an interest in Scotland's economy, including GlobalScots, to boost our recovery prospects."