An event held at the Royal Commonwealth Society in London has looked into how Glasgow and Scotland can maximise the opportunities of connections to the nations and territories throughout the Commonwealth created by the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.
This event – part of the economic and cultural programme developed by the Royal Commonwealth Society to mark Commonwealth Week – challenged business and civic leaders to use the positive links developed through the delivery of one of the world’s great multi-sports games to stimulate enterprise both in Scotland and across the Commonwealth.
The networking event was graced by senior representatives of the Glasgow 2014 Games Partners, including Mike Hooper, Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Games Federation; Shona Robison, Scottish Government Minister for the Commonwealth Games and Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council. Peter Kellner, Chairman of the Royal Commonwealth Society. Commonwealth High Commissions and members of the wider Commonwealth family were also present.
Councillor Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games presents us with a unique opportunity to showcase to a third of the world’s population what Glasgow can do. Amongst many benefits, there is a tremendous potential economic impact and legacy for Glasgow and Scotland, and events like this can help to strengthen the global business links enjoyed throughout the Commonwealth. Already, Glasgow-based firms have won over £180m of Games-related contracts as we prepare for next summer.”
Reflecting on the opportunities, Lord Smith of Kelvin, Chair of the Glasgow 2014 Organising Committee said: “The scope to collaborate and exchange skills and knowledge is huge. Individuals, organisations and governments all have a role to play in maximising the economic and social potential of our Commonwealth family.”
