First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is set to attend a special meeting of the British-Irish Council for talks on the impact of Brexit.

The extraordinary summit will take place in Cardiff on Friday to discuss the implications faced by member administrations in the wake of the UK-wide vote to leave the European Union.

It is the first time the First Minister has had the opportunity to speak face-to-face to the UK's other administrations, Crown dependencies and the Irish Government since the referendum vote.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Ms Sturgeon said: "Scotland voted overwhelming to remain within the European Union and that democratic choice by the Scottish people - so important to our economy, society and culture - will guide us as we seek to maintain our relationship with the EU.

"As I have consistently said, we will explore all options to ensure that relationship is protected, and the new Prime Minister gave me an undertaking when we met in Edinburgh last Friday that she is willing to consider the options we put forward.

"This British-Irish Council meeting is the first opportunity we have had as a forum to properly discuss the referendum result and what it means for each of our administrations.

"As such, this is one of the most important ever meetings of the British-Irish Council. I will fully discuss with colleagues the implications of the referendum result, the range of options available to us and how we can shape the negotiation process so it is reflective of everyone's circumstances."

External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop will also attend the summit.