NYC Tartan Day – UK Government to be represented

Minister for Scotland John Lamont MP is in New York to promote Scotland and represent the UK Government in the US.

This is the Minister’s second trip to the States for Tartan Week and he will use the opportunity to host a reception at Diageo New York HQ in the World Trade Centre with representatives from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, as well as a number of business events arranged by the UK Government’s Trade and Business Department.

A toast to Scotland’s culture will be raised with a glass of Johnnie Walker.

The Minister said that his visit will include discussions on attracting investment into the Scottish energy sector and a reception for Scottish FinTech company leaders from the New York financial services sector.

Mr Lamont said: “Last year I saw Tartan Week for the first time, and was blown away by the passion of those who celebrate the links between Scotland and the US. I want us to strengthen our links even more by promoting our most important exports – whisky, energy and financial services – and our rich culture. 

“I look forward to marching down Sixth Avenue with partners from The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo, Diageo and the British Consulate – who all do so much to represent the UK and Scotland across the world.”

Jason Barrett, Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “It was fantastic to share our military traditions at last year’s event and we’re delighted to have been invited by the Scotland Office to take part in this year’s Tartan Week celebrations. We have bold ambitions to share our unique and stirring performances with the world and it’s a great opportunity to showcase the talent of the Tattoo’s musicians and dancers. We’re very much looking forward to joining the other extraordinary local and international Scottish organisations at the parade.”