Leo Varadkar nominates Scottish First Minister as a 'rising leader'

THE Scottish First Minister has been featured on TIME 100 Next list, after being nominated by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. 

Humza Yousaf has been featured on the prestigious list which recognises rising leaders from across the world. 

Speaking of why he nominated Mr Yousaf, the Taoiseach said: "I was pleased to meet First Minister Humza Yousaf for the first time recently at the British-Irish Council. We had a constructive meeting in which we pledged to continue to nurture the very positive relationship between Ireland and Scotland. We will work together to further deepen the links between our two countries from an economic and cultural point of view. I’ve no doubt that as a young, energetic leader, he will serve the Scottish people with the passion and dedication they deserve."

He also added: "Humza, as the first South Asian leader of Scotland and the first Muslim leader of a Western democracy, has spoken of his belief that coming from a minority background gives him an important perspective when working to make his country a better and more equal place. I can identify with this, and I am pleased to say that Ireland has become a more progressive and equal country in recent years. My door is always open to Humza to discuss issues of shared interest between our countries."