Scottish Government Debate: Scottish Connections Framework

Angus Robertson S6M-09107 That the Parliament cherishes Scotland’s global diaspora, which it considers to be an extension of Scotland itself; welcomes the publication of the Scottish Connections Framework, which seeks to build a more vibrant, visible and connected Scottish community around the world; affirms a broad and inclusive definition of "diaspora", embracing those of Scottish heritage, lived diaspora, alumni of Scottish educational institutions, and anyone who has an affinity with Scotland; recognises the importance of including historically marginalised communities, including minority ethnic Scots, women, young people and the LGBTQ community, and of facing uncomfortable chapters in Scotland's history; celebrates the efforts of Scottish community organisations around the world for maintaining and promoting Scotland’s culture and language, including through marking St Andrew’s Day and Burns events; applauds the Scottish Government and Scottish Development International’s international network of offices for their efforts to increase Scotland’s global connections, the valuable contribution of trade and investment envoys, and the 1,200-strong GlobalScot network; stresses the importance of connecting with alumni of Scotland’s world-class educational institutions, and expresses its hope that the Scottish Connections Framework will encourage many more people to consider Scotland as a destination in which to work, live, study, do business, or simply visit. Maurice Golden S6M-09107.2 As an amendment to motion S6M-09107 in the name of Angus Robertson (Scottish Connections Framework), insert at end "; recognises the importance of engaging with the Scottish diaspora within the terms of the devolved settlement, and calls on the Scottish Government to provide more details regarding the metrics upon which the delivery of the Scottish Connections Framework will be measured and how its impact will be monitored, measured and reported.” Neil Bibby S6M-09107.1 As an amendment to motion S6M-09107 in the name of Angus Robertson (Scottish Connections Framework), insert at end "; recognises the importance of good international air links and believes that Scottish airports should be supported to develop frequent and accessible air routes to key international destinations and economic hubs; believes that there is more that could be achieved if the Scottish and UK governments worked together to promote Scotland internationally and calls for both governments to develop a plan to better use the Scotland Office and global network of UK embassies to celebrate Scottish culture and support trade envoys; regrets that Scottish students still do not have access to a proper replacement for the Erasmus programme, and calls on the Scottish Ministers to follow the example of the Welsh Government and establish an international educational exchange programme by the end of 2023."