What is Global Friends of Scotland?
The Global Friends of Scotland (GFOS) project is part of the Scottish Executive's range of activities to promote Scotland overseas, being a branch of the Executive's International Projects Division.
The project has two aims: a) to promote a contemporary image of Scotland internationally through a network of people who feel an affinity to Scotland; and b) to showcase Scotland's world class achievements in culture, sport, education and business, by way of a dynamic website www.friendsofscotland.gov.uk.
What does it do?
The purpose of the project is to reach out to Scotland's many "friends" around the world in order to spread the message about the latest developments in contemporary Scotland. The project aims to raise Scotland's profile overseas, in the interests of promoting, in particular, cultural, educational, business and other links. We aim to communicate to an international audience that Scotland is the best small place to visit, live, work, study, and do business.
The Global Friends of Scotland project promotes Scotland internationally in two main ways:
1. The Network
The project has established a network of individuals promoting the strengths of modern Scotland to international audiences.
Some members of the network are native Scots living and working abroad, others have worked or studied in Scotland, while several have no 'direct' connection with Scotland, but do have a strong affinity with our country.
The role of the network is assessed to ensure that it is effectively aligned with other Executive activities to promote Scotland internationally, such as the Fresh Talent initiative.
Currently, there are just under 400 signed-up "Global Friends" from 28 countries who have agreed to be part of the network.
2. The Website
The Global Friends of Scotland website - www.friendsofscotland.gov.uk - plays a key role by showcasing Scottish achievements to an international audience. The website features the latest developments in culture, sport, education and business. It also carries articles which look at Scotland's relationship and links with other countries.
Where are the Global Friends based?
Global Friends are based all over the world in 28 countries including: Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, China / Hong Kong, and France, amongst others.
Contact information
If you have any queries regarding the GFOS project, the international network, or website, then please get in touch.
Our email address is: globalfriendsofscotland@scotland.gsi.gov.uk.