This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Tartan Day in America
05/04/2002
New York is decked out in full tartan regalia this weekend as America celebrates its historic and contemporary links with Scotland.
10,000 pipers and drummers from 30 countries are preparing to march through the streets of Manhattan in what will be a world record gathering of massed bands.
The Tunes of Glory parade is the centrepiece of National Tartan Day, designated by the US Senate as April 6 each year in recognition of the contribution made by generations of Scots-Americans to the foundation and prosperity of modern America.
First Minister Jack McConnell is in the Big Apple to represent Scotland and Tourism Minister Mike Watson is making the case for more tourists to make the transatlantic trip eastwards. There is also a delegation from the Scottish Parliament led by Presiding Officer Sir David Steel.
Mr McConnell, who will lead the Tunes of Glory, flew into New York to go on a fact-finding visit to the US Drugs Enforcement Agency and has invited American police officers to get involved in a drugs summit he is planning to hold in Scotland.
Mr Watson has already opened an exhibition of immigration from the Highlands and Islands at Ellis Island, and attended a showcase of contemporary Scottish culture with live performances and visual arts.
Mr McConnell said: "Tartan Day has become a major event in America and I am determined to make sure that Scotland is promoted at the highest level during a time when the world will be watching.
"This is the perfect opportunity to make a step change in our recovery from the effects of the foot and mouth epidemic and the terrorist attacks of September 11. We will show Americans that not only is Scotland a first class tourist destination, but that our economy has an important connection with America.
"In the US and across the world, people have a strong emotional commitment to Scotland and the symbols of our past. That is an important tie for us to build on as we promote contemporary Scotland with a modern and dynamic culture and economy."
Mike Watson added: "Scotland's culture in 2002 has great power to surprise, to enthral, to absorb - but most of all, to impress. I take immense pride in asserting that the same culture also has a long history of making a huge impact on the world.
"That is why we can promote ourselves with confidence as a must-visit tourist destination - especially for 'cultural tourists', and those who might enjoy visiting some of the world's most beautiful countryside. What we have to offer is excellence."