Scotland seeks to strengthen links with its northern neighbours as First Minister attends Arctic Circle Assembly in Iceland

Nicola Sturgeon will take part in the Arctic Circle Assembly during a visit to the Icelandic capital Reykjavik. As well as meeting Iceland's president she will also talk with representatives of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

The Scottish First Minister is keen to stress that Scotland is helping to lead the way internationally on the issue of climate change. She described the Arctic Circle Assembly as "a dynamic gathering of governments and organisations determined to work together to bring about positive change".

Nicola Sturgeon said: "Climate change is clearly an issue that affects us all, and is a policy area where Scotland is helping to lead the way internationally. And the impact of climate change on the Arctic and the wider region, of which we are an important part, is being increasingly felt.

"That is why Scotland will continue to work with others and share internationally our low carbon expertise. There is much Scotland can gain by looking north, and we also have knowledge and insight to share with our neighbours in the region."

An Arctic Circle Forum on areas of co-operation for countries in the area is also to be held in Edinburgh in November.