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America elects Obama
05/11/2008
Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond has sent his congratulations to the President-elect of the United States, Barack Obama.
In his message, Mr Salmond included an invitation to visit Scotland during the 2009 Year of Homecoming.
Senator Obama has Scottish ancestry and sent a statement of support to this year's Scotland Week celebrations in the United States.
Mr Salmond said:
"On behalf of the people of Scotland, I send you my heartfelt congratulations on a wonderful and historic election victory - it ushers in a new era of hope for the United States and its role in the world. This was a victory for optimism over pessimism, for hope over fear.
"It is time for a leader with your commitment to cooperation, and your belief that the improbable can be possible with goodwill and hard work.
"The American public have chosen another President of Scottish descent, and your message of support for the Scotland Week celebrations in the US this year was greatly appreciated by Scots at home and abroad.
"2009 is Scotland's Year of Homecoming - celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland's national bard and international cultural icon, Robert Burns - during which we will welcome to Scotland people from around the world with a connection to and love of our nation.
"It will be a fantastic year to come home - for Presidents and citizens alike - and I extend an invitation of warm Scottish hospitality to you during this special year."
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Presidential Backing - Present and Future
12 US Presidents have been of Scottish descent. According to genealogists, Barack Obama can trace his ancestry to William the Lion, who ruled Scotland between 1165 and 1214. Senator Obama's maternal ancestor, Edward FitzRandolph, emigrated to America in the 17th century.
In April, Senator Obama sent a message of support to the Scottish Government for the Tartan Day and Scotland Week celebrations in the US, which culminated in the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Senate's Tartan Day Resolution.
Statement from Senator Barack Obama
"I am proud to recognize the tenth anniversary of the Senate's resolution commemorating Tartan Day. With millions of Americans of Scottish descent living throughout the country, it is important to celebrate the historic relationship between the United States and Scotland, and the great contributions Scottish Americans have made. I wish you the best during this Scotland Week celebration."