Obama to visit Scotland for charity talk
● Former US president will give talk in Edinburgh
Former US president Barack Obama will make his first visit to Scotland when he addresses business leaders at a £500-a-head charity event in the capital.
The dinner at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on 26 May organised by The Hunter Foundation is one of his first major addresses since his term as president came to an end.
Former US president Barack Obama is to make his first visit to Scotland when he addresses business leaders in Edinburgh next month. The Democrat, who served eight years in the White House, will attend a charity event at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre where he will participate in a detailed Q&A session, as well as deliver a keynote speech to dozens of organisations.
It is not yet known if his wife Michelle will be accompanying him, but it is anticipated there will be a large-scale security operation surrounding the trip.
The dinner on 26 May is thought to be one of his first major addresses since his term as president came to an end.
It is being organised by The Hunter Foundation, set up by leading businessman and philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, with tickets for a table of ten expected to go on sale for approximately £5,000. All of the cash raised will be split between children’s charities in Scotland and the Obama Foundation, set up by the former president and his wife.
Sir Tom also plans to set aside some seats at the event for local young people.
He said: “From the South Side of Chicago to the White House has been an epic, historic journey and it will be a true honour to hear that story from the man who made that journey. We are both truly proud and delighted to be hosting the 44th president of the United States in Scotland at this event.”
Sir Tom told reporters he is “really chuffed” Mr Obama is coming to Scotland.
The Hunter Foundation has previously arranged for US politicians and actors including Bill Clinton, Leonardo Dicaprio and George Clooney to come to Scotland.
“We’re always looking for really inspiring speakers to come along to Scotland, and really inspire and inform,” Sir Tom said.
“To be able to get president Obama, we’re really chuffed.”
The entrepreneur-turned-philanthropist also revealed he is planning a special surprise. He said: “President Obama loves his music, so we’re getting some interesting guests.”