A Scottish business chief wants the country to “seize the moment” and capitalise on its higher profile on the world stage after an eventful 2014.
The Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup golf tournament and independence referendum have all put Scotland under the spotlight this year.
CBI Scotland chairman John Howie said: “The new year is a good time to reflect on the past year and look ahead to our hopes and ambitions for 2015.
“To say that 2014 was a momentous year for Scotland is a gross understatement, but it is worth reflecting on all we have achieved.
“Hosting incredible sporting events from the Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup and the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year before Christmas, through to the MTV Music Awards, all showcased Scotland to the world.
“With economic growth continuing to look positive and unemployment continuing to fall, my ambition is that we seize the moment and capitalise on this.”
In his new year’s message, Mr Howie also said businesses and investors needed stability to drive economic growth.
He added: “We must look beyond our border and constitutional debate towards internationalisation, boosting our export base and developing robust and positive policy on the bread-and-butter issues which underpin sound economic performance.
“The Smith Commission has made a number of sensible recommendations and we want to see all political parties get behind delivering these significant new powers to Scotland. “We are also calling on the Scottish Government to set out how they plan to use these powers at the earliest opportunity.
“Scottish businesses will need a stable and secure environment, so that they can create the growth and jobs that all the people of Scotland deserve.”