World

Verhofstadt in Edinburgh: How Scotland’s Pro-EU Stance Shapes European Dialogue

Verhofstadt to speak in Edinburgh, praising Scotland’s pro-EU stance and European ties at dinner.

September 19, 2025, 11:21 AM

Panoramic view of Edinburgh with Scott Monument and Calton Hill

A scenic panoramic view of Edinburgh, Scotland, showcasing the Scott Monument, a large historic building with a clock tower, and Calton Hill with its monuments, set against the backdrop of the sea. By MDL.

Executive Summary

Guy Verhofstadt, a prominent EU figure and former Belgian Prime Minister, will deliver a keynote address at a pro-European dinner in Edinburgh on November 1.

Verhofstadt has publicly commended Scotland’s strong pro-EU sentiment, calling it “the most pro-EU part of the UK” and its people “internationalists” and “realists.”

His visit is anticipated to reinforce the ongoing dialogue about Scotland’s distinct pro-European relationship within the broader UK context.

The Story So Far

Guy Verhofstadt, a prominent pro-European figure and former EU Parliament Brexit coordinator, is visiting Scotland, which he has publicly lauded as “the most pro-EU part of the UK.” His visit underscores Scotland’s distinct and strong pro-EU sentiment, a stance that has remained prominent following the UK’s decision to leave the European Union, and aims to reinforce European ties in this post-Brexit context.

Why This Matters

Guy Verhofstadt’s visit to Scotland and his public praise for its pro-EU sentiment are set to reinforce Scotland’s distinct European identity within the post-Brexit UK, potentially invigorating the ongoing dialogue about its future relationship with Europe and providing a significant boost to pro-EU movements in the region.

Who Thinks What?

Guy Verhofstadt views Scotland as the most pro-EU part of the UK, commending its people as internationalists and realists who understand the value of deep democratic cooperation between states.

The European Movement in Scotland is actively promoting Scotland’s European ties by hosting a pro-European dinner and inviting a prominent EU figure to deliver the keynote address.

Scotland is portrayed as holding strong pro-EU sentiment and distinct political and cultural leanings within the broader UK context, valuing European engagement for its clear benefits.

Former Belgian Prime Minister and influential EU figure, Guy Verhofstadt, is set to deliver the keynote address at a pro-European dinner hosted by the European Movement in Scotland on November 1 in Edinburgh. His visit underscores Scotland’s strong pro-EU sentiment, a stance he has publicly commended.

Verhofstadt’s European Stature

Verhofstadt, who served as Belgium’s prime minister from 1999 to 2008 and recently retired as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), is a prominent voice in European politics. His extensive career includes significant roles such as the European Parliament’s Brexit coordinator and chair of the Brexit Steering Group following the UK’s 2016 referendum. He currently presides over the European Movement International.

Remarks on Scotland’s Stance

Commenting on his upcoming visit, Verhofstadt lauded Scotland as “the most pro-EU part of the UK,” highlighting its people’s understanding of the value of European engagement. He characterized Scots as “internationalists” and “realists,” appreciating “deep democratic cooperation between states” for its clear benefits across trade, security, education, sport, and culture.

Verhofstadt expressed his delight at the invitation, stating, “I look forward to being in Edinburgh, and I’m delighted that the European Movement in Scotland has invited me to visit a truly great European capital city.”

Reinforcing European Ties

Verhofstadt’s appearance is expected to reinforce the ongoing dialogue surrounding Scotland’s relationship with Europe, drawing attention to its distinct political and cultural leanings within the broader UK context.