As the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games draw to a close, people across Scotland can take enormous pride in what has been achieved. Over the past week, we have once again shown people around the world what we can deliver.

We have hosted a world-class event by using our outstanding venues, experienced workforce, volunteers and communities to put on a spectacle that has been memorable and distinctly Scottish.

Events like these are an opportunity to showcase Scotland's remarkable talents. They bring people into our towns and cities, generate economic activity and demonstrate that Scotland is a confident, outward-looking nation with the skills, infrastructure and ambition to compete on the global stage.

The opening ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games at The Hydro (Image: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Glasgow 2026 has highlighted an approach that I believe can inspire us far beyond sport and other major events.

Success comes when we build on our strengths, back our people and provide the support that allows innovation, enterprise and talent to flourish.

Whether it is a start-up developing........

© Herald Scotland