JOHN Swinney revealed he discussed golf and Scottish whisky in his first phone call with President-elect Donald Trump.
The chat came after the First Minister was blasted by Trump International for his “appalling” backing of Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.
Mr Swinney was forced into a humiliating climbdown after Mr Trump’s victory in November as he was made to write to him and offer his congratulations, despite his backing of Ms Harris.
The First Minister confirmed tonight that he had spoken to President Trump on the phone, as reported by Forth 1 News.
He said golf and whisky were two topics which were raised, but the prospect of huge export tariffs on Scotch whisky was not specifically broached with the new President despite his promise to impose them.
The First Minister said: “I congratulated him on his election as President of the United States and we discussed the ties that exist between Scotland and the United States.
“I set out the importance that we attach to the economic connections particularly around the Scotch whisky industry.
“We did of course talk about golf. It’s very important to President-elect Trump and he expressed his admiration for Scotland and the character and the identity of the country.”
Mr Swinney was also asked whether President Trump planned to visit Scotland, but said no plans were discussed.
It comes after Sarah Malone, executive vice president of Trump International, attacked the SNP chief and Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie for “political posturing” over Mr Trump.
She said: “What is galling for the hundreds of people who work for Trump in Scotland is to see constant abuse of a man and his family who have put heart and soul into creating top world ranking destinations in Scotland. Enough is enough.”
President Trump also revealed himself to be anti-Scottish independence during the election campaign.
He told a podcast with comedian Andrew Schulz: “You know, they tried to break up Scotland from the rest of the empire, so to speak. It made it by about like a half a point. They kept it together. So I hope it stays together. I hope it always stays together.”