Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf was invited to meet representatives from countries from across the Arab world, including the UAE, Algeria, Libya and the Palestinian territories, in London on Monday evening.
During the meeting with the Council of Arab Ambassadors, Mr Yousaf discussed Scotland's commitment to promoting human rights, its "economic potential" and the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
He also spoke with the ambassadors about Scotland’s renewables industries, tourism and universities.
“This evening, the First Minister attended a roundtable discussion, on invitation, with the Council of Arab Ambassadors in London,” his spokesman said.
“The First Minister delivered opening remarks which focused on Scotland’s economic potential, specifically with regards to renewable energy, our world-renowned education institutes that welcome international students from across the globe, and Scotland’s growing tourism industry.
“The First Minister also outlined Scotland’s role in the world as a global citizen – citing the Scottish government’s unwavering commitment to promoting human rights, tackling inequality, and our calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.”
Scotland's Humza Yousaf through the years - in pictures
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Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf speaks during a press conference at Bute House in Edinburgh, where he said he will resign as Scottish National Party chief and the country's leader. PA -
Mr Yousaf speaks to the media during a visit to Dundee in April. His appearance came as Scottish opposition parties called for a confidence vote after the collapse of his power-sharing deal with the Green Party. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf holds a press conference in Edinburgh as he announces the SNP's withdrawal from the Bute House Agreement. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf joins members of the public as they attend a march in Glasgow calling for an independent Scotland, in April. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf takes part in a dance performance during a visit to DN Studios in Edinburgh in March. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf and his new cabinet pose at St Andrew's House in Edinburgh, in February. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf speaks during the launch of the SNP general election campaign at Oran Mor in Glasgow, in January. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf during Save the Children Christmas Jumper Day at the Scottish Parliament in December. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf engages with pupils during Scotland's Book Week at Craigentinny Primary School in Edinburgh, in November. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf lays a wreath during Scotland's Remembrance Sunday Event at Edinburgh City Chambers, in November. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf with his wife Nadia El-Nakla after his speech at the SNP conference in October. PA -
Mr Yousaf speaking at a service of solidarity at Giffnock Newton Mearns Synagogue in October. PA -
Mr Yousaf with hundreds of supporters of Scottish independence during a march in Edinburgh in September. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf outside the Court of Session in Edinburgh, after being sworn in as First Minister of Scotland in March 2023. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf signs the nomination form to become First Minister of Scotland, watched by his wife Nadia El Nakla, daughter Amal and step-daughter Maya, in March 2023. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf speaks after being elected as new Scottish National Party leader in Edinburgh, in March 2023. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf with his mother Shaaista and father Muzaffar in Glasgow as he campaigns to become the next leader of the Scottish National Party, in February 2023. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf visits Monklands Hospital in Airdrie in 2021, when he was health secretary. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf, justice minister at the time, attends a Ministerial Statement in Edinburgh in 2020. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf with Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the ruling SNP at the time, at the count for the Scottish Parliament elections in 2016 in Glasgow. Getty Images -
Angela Constance and Mr Yousaf after being sworn in as Scottish MPs in Edinburgh in 2016. Getty Images -
Mr Yousaf speaks during the SNP conference in Aberdeen in 2015. Getty Images -
Alex Salmond, SNP leader at the time, with Mr Yousaf at the Scottish Parliament in 2011. Getty Images
On Monday morning, Mr Yousaf posted a picture of his suhoor meal on X and said he hoped the first day of Ramadan went well for everyone.
"My suhoor [the meal just before fasting starts] at 4am this morning," Mr Yousaf said in the post.
"Granola, yoghurt, honey and, of course, plenty of water.
"I hope the first day of Ramadan [always the toughest, as you would expect] goes well for you and yours."
