Nicola Sturgeon will jet off to the United States this weekend as she continues to promote the work of the Scottish Government abroad.
The First Minister will deliver a keynote speech at the Brookings Institution on Monday and meet with politicians the following day.
She is expected to attend a range of events focused on the interlinked issues of climate, energy security and the war in Ukraine.
But one opposition MSP branded the trip an "indy tour" at which the SNP leader will talk up the benefits of independence.
It comes as the Scottish Government unveiled its new "global affairs framework" which sets out "the values, principles and priorities underpinning the Scottish Government’s work to become more active internationally".
Sturgeon said: "We are determined that Scotland continues to be a good global citizen, making a constructive contribution to addressing global challenges such as climate change.
"Our international activity creates opportunities at home, broadens our horizons, attracts high-quality investment and ultimately benefits our people - no more evident than in Scotland’s longstanding relationship and strong trade ties with the USA, which this visit will build upon further.
"By being open and connected and making a positive contribution internationally, we give ourselves the greatest possible chance of building a successful country. In this way we can make a contribution to the world that is welcomed, valued and helps us all."
Donald Cameron, the Scottish Conservative constitution spokesman, claimed the First Minister should be focusing on domestic issues rather than "taking her eye off the ball" during the cost-of-living crisis.
The Tory MSP said: "Just a few days after the local elections, Nicola Sturgeon has already abandoned local issues to jet off on an 'indy tour' to the United States."
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