Von der Leyen meets Swinney in Scotland before Trump talks

First Minister John Swinney welcomed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to Scotland on Saturday evening, ahead of her planned meeting with Donald Trump at his Turnberry resort.

Von der Leyen travelled to Glasgow before heading to the US president's golf resort in Girvan, Ayrshire. She had announced on Friday that she and Trump "have agreed to meet in Scotland on Sunday to discuss transatlantic trade relations".

Scotland-EU relationship discussed

During their Saturday evening meeting, Swinney and von der Leyen discussed the UK's relationship with the European Union, as well as the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.

The First Minister outlined Scotland's continued support for EU leadership in demanding free and safe humanitarian aid in Gaza. He emphasised efforts to bring an end to what he described as "unbearable suffering unfolding" in the region.

Ukraine commitment reiterated

Swinney also used the opportunity to reiterate Scotland's steadfast commitment to Ukraine during the meeting. He highlighted the country's dedication to working with European partners on key issues, including energy cooperation.

Von der Leyen announced her Scotland visit plans on Friday via X, formerly known as Twitter. She wrote: "Following a good call with @Potus, we have agreed to meet in Scotland on Sunday to discuss transatlantic trade relations, and how we can keep them strong."

(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.