Swinney to march in Tartan Day parade as part of New York charm offensive

The First Minister will focus on championing Scotland’s culture, heritage, and growing influence on the global stage in New York this weekend amid fear of a growing global trade war.

John Swinney is visiting the United States to promote Scotland and march in New York City’s Tartan Day parade led by actor Alan Cumming on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of the event, Swinney said National Tartan Day is a “testament to the strength of the Scottish diaspora in the US”.

“Tartan Day and the wider festivities in New York reaffirm the historic friendship between our two nations – a friendship that is deep and strong, and that dates back centuries,” he said.

Scottish performers prepare ahead of New York Tartan Week STV News

“We want to continue to celebrate those ties, whilst also shining a spotlight on the vibrant, dynamic and innovative Scotland of today.”

Swinney’s visit comes at a time of international trade turmoil after US President Donald Trump slapped the UK with a minimum 10% tariff on exports to the US on Wednesday night.

The First Minister has strongly condemned these tariffs as “damaging” for Scotland, and it has cast a cloud over the event.

However, Swinney has indicated that he will focus on what he originally set out to do: drum up investment for Scotland and advertise it as a “world-class place to do business”.

“I am looking forward to leading Scotland’s presence during the Tartan Day Parade alongside Grand Marshal Alan Cumming and to addressing the audience during at a venue named after one of Scotland’s most famous sons,” Swinney said.

“Today is a day to celebrate the best of Scotland and to promote the iconic and globally revered culture and heritage we have to offer.”

During his visit, Swinney will address the audience at Scotland’s first ‘Hoolie in New York’ and host a reception for partners in culture, commerce and beyond at Carnegie Hall, shining a spotlight on Scotland’s vibrant cultural sector, exports and investment offer.

He will also welcome performers from Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band and the Atholl Highlanders to Tartan Week in Manhattan’s Bryant Park and celebrate the legacy of Scottish Americans during the Kirkin O’ the Tartan service at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church.

Swinney added: “Scottish history and heritage are celebrated the world over and woven into the fabric of the United States. I know it means a great deal to the millions of Americans with Scottish connections.”

The First Minister is visiting New York from Friday, April 4 until Monday, April 7.