At today’s Scottish Cities Week opening event, Mr Arthur will champion the strengths of Scotland’s cities and their regions, and reaffirm the Government’s support to help deliver further growth.

The Scottish Government’s draft 2025-26 Budget includes £215 million for City Region Deals to foster growth, innovation and job creation, £62m for new community-led regeneration while £321m will be invested in Scotland’s enterprise agencies.

Mr Arthur said: “We have a lot to be proud of, and our cities have shown global leadership in establishing environments that nurture innovation and economic success.

“Aberdeen’s pioneering work in energy transition, Dundee’s world renowned video games sector, Edinburgh’s financial services and our world-class universities, research hubs and new business parks are just a few examples. These are places where ideas are transformed into action and which attract global interest.

“Scottish Cities Week is an opportunity to showcase our dynamic industries, talented people and our commitment to sustainability, innovation and growth. And to spread the word that Scotland is a great place to live, work and invest.”