ON the occasion of St Andrew's Day, the First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond, congratulated the Scots on behalf of his government.
"I am delighted to extend my warmest wishes to you on St Andrew's Day," he said.
"This is a day for celebrating all that is great about Scotland. We are proud of our heritage, and this is a tremendous opportunity to say that. But we are just as positive about Scotland's future, and the changes for the better that are happening in Scotland. Not just in terms of a new government but also in cultural renewal.
"This new Scotland is one which is bold, confident, demanding and ambitious.
"In Scotland we live in a country with enormous assets - chief among them our people. We have a history and a present reality of innovation, of educational excellence, and of individuals and companies succeeding in a competitive global market.
"When I have travelled to different countries I am always encouraged by the boundless energy, passion and commitment that people across the globe have towards Scotland.
"I am delighted that so many of you are celebrating Scotland's National Day - as we are too though events across Scotland.
"On behalf of the people of Scotland I send you best wishes for a wonderful National Day."
Saint Andrew is the Patron Saint of Scotland and St Andrew's Day is celebrated by Scots around the world on November 30.