First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has met with Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O’Neill in Edinburgh.

It comes after Sinn Fein won 27 seats in the Northern Ireland Assembly, becoming the largest party for the first time.

In doing so, the party pushed the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), who won 25 seats, into second place.

It means that O’Neill will become the First Minister of Northern Ireland – and the first nationalist to hold the post since Northern Ireland was created in 1921.

It is believed that they discussed the cost of living crisis, the formation of a government at Stormont, and relations between Scotland and Northern Ireland.

In a Tweet, O’Neill said the two countries enjoy a “long and enduring” affinity.

“Delighted to meet Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in beautiful Edinburgh,” she wrote.

“The historic bonds between Scotland & the island of Ireland go back centuries.

“We enjoy a long & enduring affinity as neighbours & friends. Moving forward we will strengthen the bonds that tie us.”

Following their meeting, Sturgeon thanked O’Neill for seeking to arrange the meeting.

And she said that she has written to the leaders of the DUP and Alliance parties in Northern Ireland to meet.

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