Scottish Secretary visits Indo-Pacific to promote trade and strengthen defence ties

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander is on a week-long visit to Australia, Singapore and New Zealand to discuss trade and security. He will meet government and business leaders and attend performances of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander is undertaking a week-long visit to the Indo-Pacific, travelling to Australia, Singapore and New Zealand to discuss trade and security. The programme combines meetings with government ministers and business leaders across the three nations. The visit also includes attendance at two international performances of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Auckland and Brisbane. Officials say the trip will explore defence collaboration and opportunities for Scottish exporters. Key points: - Mr Alexander will meet government ministers and business leaders in Australia, Singapore and New Zealand. - He will attend Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances in Auckland and Brisbane. - Discussions are expected to include defence cooperation, including naval shipbuilding and advanced defence manufacturing where Scottish industry has relevant expertise. - The UK and Australia signed a 2025 treaty described as a 50-year commitment to deepen security cooperation, and Australia is a participant in AUKUS. - The visit will also focus on trade and inward investment, with reference to UK free trade agreements and membership of the CPTPP. Summary: The visit is presented as an effort to strengthen defence partnerships and to promote trade and inward investment links between Scotland and Indo-Pacific partners. Officials describe opportunities in defence manufacturing and in exports such as whisky, seafood, financial services and renewable energy technology. Undetermined at this time.