MSPs stated that they believed it was crucial to ensure a precise alignment between domestic policy and external actions’.
The Holyrood committee has recommended that the Scottish Government’s new international framework connect domestic priorities with projects being undertaken overseas.
MSPs from the Scottish Parliament’s Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee also stated that, while the focus was on Europe is “expected to be a priority” for ministers, there must also be a “wider external engagement.”
The Committee looked at international policy simultaneously since the Scottish Government is committed to preparing a revised policy for overseas relations.
The framework should be in place “shortly” MSPs were informed. The framework is designed to outline the core values of this engagement and demonstrate the Scottish “wish to be a good global citizen.”
The MSPs stated that they believed it “important to ensure alignment between domestic policy and external action.”
They also said: “Issues prioritised in external relations should be driven by, match and inform domestic priorities; be that working towards a well-being economy, sustainable development, promoting gender equality or protecting human rights etc.”
The report by the Committee emphasized its findings that it is “essential that both the Scottish Government and the Scottish Parliament continue to have a strong relationship with the EU.”
However, the MSPs added: “While a focus on Europe is expected to be a priority for the Scottish Government, wider external engagement – for reasons of trade, culture, education etc – is also necessary.”
The new international framework should define values and goals linked to Scotland’s national agenda, the Committee suggested.
It should also prioritize countries or regions, as well as policy themes, and should also offer the “clear rationale” for these decision-making processes.
The Committee, in general, said the updated international framework must “provide the basis for Scotland to offer leadership and present new ways of thinking about our place and influence in the world.”
The Committee’s chairman Clare Adamson said: “The Scottish Government’s work internationally covers a broad range of initiatives – supporting businesses and trade, developing policies, educational and cultural connections, and encouraging global development and climate justice.
“Our committee wants to see the Scottish Government’s new international framework set out an explicit strategy, linked to the national performance framework so we can provide proper scrutiny, and to provide clarity for all those engaged with the Scottish Government’s international work – including businesses, universities and NGOs.”
An official Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Work on the Global Affairs Framework is continuing and the framework will be published in due course.”
