01 Jan 2002
Scottish Secretary, Helen Liddell, today issued the following New Year message to Scots at home and around the world. Mrs Liddell said:
"This is an exciting time to be a Scot. We have transformed our economy into one of the most modern in Europe. The establishment of the Scottish Parliament has sparked a lively new political culture. Our cities are bursting with a youthful vibrancy. Our architects, our graphic designers, our researchers and our computer wizards are setting the pace of innovation. We set foot in the year 2002 with a new confidence, with a new spring in our step.
"We look ahead to this new year with the events of the year just passed very much in our minds, and especially those of September 11th.
"On that day thousands of people in America, including a number of Scots, fell victim to the most devastating terrorist act in history. I visited Ground Zero to pay my respects on behalf of the people of Scotland.
"The events of that day changed our world forever. They triggered a war against terrorism that has taken our troops to Afghanistan. There has been a shock to the global economy that Scotland, benefiting from the strength of the UK economy, is well placed to resist. But they also reminded us of the real priorities in life. Of the importance of our families, of the strength of our communities, of the care for each other that binds humanity together.
"As we celebrate Hogmanay, we remember all those who were robbed of their loved ones by the events of September 11th. Eleven million Americans take pride in their Scottish origins, and at this time of remembering auld acquaintance we stand shoulder to shoulder with them.
"The struggle to defeat terrorism is not yet over. Jobs around the world are still being lost because of the shock waves from September 11th. Rural Scotland’s difficulties have been compounded by the impact of Foot and Mouth disease. Yet in looking ahead to the year 2002 I see strong grounds for hope.
"We have a strong economy, so Scotland is well placed to ride out the storm. At home, the devolution partnership between Westminster and Holyrood is starting to deliver better schools and hospitals, is taking more Scottish families out of poverty and giving our old folk the dignity they deserve. And around the world, the new vigour of Scotland and its people is earning us ever greater respect.
"In 2001 I launched my "Friends of Scotland" initiative, working with the Scottish Government to reach out to movers and shakers around the world who have ties with Scotland and letting them know how our country has changed. In 2002 I shall be taking that message myself to Hong Kong, to America and to key markets in Europe. My aim is to strengthen our trading, cultural, academic and tourist links with the rest of the world, and to secure new business, new jobs, for Scotland.
"I can’t do that on my own. I need Scots at home and around the world to sing the song of the new Scotland … and of its traditional virtues, its whisky, its golf and its world-beating scenery. We have influential friends; let’s recruit them to work in Scotland’s interest.
"In this Golden Jubilee year Scotland will also gain another new city: either Stirling, Paisley, Ayr or Dumfries. I have recently visited all four towns and been impressed by the enthusiasm and vigour I found in each. The new Scotland at its very best.
"I wish you all a happy New Year, wherever you may be. Let 2002 be a year of peace and prosperity for all.".