This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Days of Auld Lang Syne
30/12/2004
First Minister Jack McConnell, in a New Year message from the main Parliament chamber at Holyrood, said:
"On New Year's Eve, millions of people across the world will join hands to sing Scotland's most famous song, Auld Lang Syne.
"Its universal message of friendship has resonance wherever, and whenever, it is sung. This year I have heard it on many different occasions, but two of the most memorable were thousands of miles apart.
"In October one of Scotland's most accomplished musicians, Eddie Reader sang Auld Lang Syne at the official opening of our new parliament.
"Everyone who was privileged to be in the chamber that day, and the millions more across the world who watched on television, heard her and other Scottish artists such as Nicola Benedetti and the Royal National Scottish Orchestra, celebrate a new Scotland. A country with a proud past and authentic culture, full of enterprising, welcoming people - a country ambitious for the future.
"A week later, while listening to the pupils of Shanghai Middle School No 3 sing Auld Lang Syne in Mandarin, it struck me that the biggest prize our small country can win in 2005 is to build on our international friendships.
"I want the world to learn more about modern Scotland and all it can offer as a good place to live, work and to do business with, but I am also determined that we will play our part in building a more secure and prosperous world.
"In a few months time, the eyes of the world will be on Scotland as world leaders gather for the G8 summit at Gleneagles.
"It is a timely chance to show that there is a spring in Scotland's step once more, to build on old friendships and forge new links. To demonstrate to the world all that this small country has got to offer.
"And just as we will extend the hand of friendship to everyone who comes to support the international movement to tackle poverty and ill health in the poorest places.
"In July, we will extend the hand of friendship to the world's most powerful leaders but, for now, I wish you all, wherever you may live, a very happy and a very prosperous New Year from Scotland. "
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