President’s visit is ‘landmark moment’, says first minister, as SNP puts pressure on him to take strong stance on Palestine

John Swinney has pledged to raise “the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza” when he meets Donald Trump over the weekend.

The leader of the Scottish National party described the president’s four-day trip as “a landmark moment” in the relationship between Scotland and the US.

Ahead of Trump’s arrival in Scotland on Friday afternoon, Swinney said: “As we welcome the president of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter, including war and peace, justice and democracy.

“As first minister it is my responsibility to advance our interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government across the world.”