Edinburgh festivals ‘send clear message Scotland is a welcoming country’

Edinburgh’s festivals are sending a clear message that Scotland is an open and welcoming country, the Deputy First Minister said.

Jenny Gilruth, who is also Scotland’s Finance Secretary, said the city’s festivals will provide the country’s talent with a “global platform” to showcase their work.

She will attend the opening concert of the Edinburgh International Festival on Saturday night alongside public finance minister Hannah Mary Goodlad.

Ms Gilruth said: “Edinburgh’s festivals provide a global platform for Scotland and for all the talented performers who take part.

“They also bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the capital throughout August with all the economic benefits that brings.

“They are invaluable for Scottish artists and performers to develop and support their ambition and creativity, providing opportunities to showcase their work nationally and internationally.

“These festivals also send out a clear message that Scotland is an open and welcoming country, reinforcing how the culture and arts sector occupy such an important place at the heart of our national identity.

“Increasing investment into Edinburgh’s Festivals forms part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to increase culture funding by £100 million annually by 2028-29, ensuring the benefits and chances to participate are enjoyed across the country.

“I am delighted to be attending the opening concert of this year’s Edinburgh International Festival and thank everyone involved in the tremendous range of shows on offer across all the festivals in the city this month.”