First Minister John Swinney will meet President Donald Trump in the Oval Office today to discuss whisky tariffs. The 30-minute meeting is scheduled for 14:00 EDT (19:00 GMT) as part of Swinney's trade mission to the United States.
The Scottish leader is conducting a series of political and trade meetings with representatives from both main US political parties. He flew to Washington DC on Tuesday with the aim of securing better tariff arrangements for Scotch whisky.
Historic venue sets stage
Before the White House meeting, Swinney met with representatives from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States and the Scotch Whisky Association at Mount Vernon. The historic venue was chosen for its significance as the home of George Washington, who opened a whisky distillery there in 1798 operated by his Scottish farm hand James Anderson.
The symbolic location underscores the long-standing connections between Scottish and American whisky production.
Building on previous discussions
Swinney referenced earlier conversations with Trump during the president's Scotland visit in July. "When President Trump came to Scotland in July, we raised Scotch whisky with him and got it on the trade deal agenda," he said.
"Now, with just over a week to go before the president makes a state visit to the UK, we have a critical chance to follow up and make the case for a better deal."
Unique position argument
The First Minister emphasised Scotland's exclusive position in whisky production. "Scotch whisky holds a unique position, as it can only legally be produced in Scotland," he stated.
He highlighted the alliance between Scottish and American spirits producers. "Scotch whisky and Kentucky bourbon have made common cause. This isn't a case of US business versus imports to the US. Both agree that they want no tariffs. That's a real strength."
Final push for agreement
Swinney framed today's meeting as a crucial opportunity ahead of Trump's upcoming UK state visit. "Today's discussions with the president are another chance to make that case and to fight for the very best deal possible for Scotland," he concluded.
The timing of the meeting comes with just over a week remaining before the president's official visit to Britain.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
