Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health & Social Care's EXPO 2025 trip: FOI release

Information requested

You asked for an explanation of how this trade mission reflects his job as the Health Secretary in Scotland.

Response

I enclose a copy of all of the information you requested.

The answer to your question is:

EXPO 2025 Osaka presents an excellent opportunity to promote Scotland as a partner for Japan as it seeks to address future challenges around creative technologies & innovation, clean energy, health and data management. One of Expo and our own key theme days included a focus on promoting Scotland’s innovation and solutions in Health Technologies, highlighting synergies with Japan’s challenges around rural healthcare and ageing population. In his position as Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Scottish Government Officials felt that Mr Gray was the ideal candidate to lead a health technology trade mission and Scotland’s presence at multiple health conferences/events.

Furthermore, as Mr Gray had previously visited Japan in 2023 and existing relationships are crucial in developing strong business links in Japan, the visit allowed us to build upon this.

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