The First Minister has congratulated Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration as US President.

Trump, whose mother was Scottish, will become the 45th President of the United States at 5pm on Friday UK time.

He clashed with Sturgeon's predecessor, Alex Salmond, over wind turbine projects in view of his golf course at Balmedie in Aberdeenshire.

Trump also owns a second Scottish course at Turnberry in South Ayrshire.

The First Minister said: "I congratulate President Trump on taking office today. There are great global challenges to be faced, and I wish his administration well in dealing with them.

"The ties of family, friendship and business that bind our countries are very deep and longstanding. We share fundamental values of equality, tolerance and human rights and I hope to see these values upheld during the new President's term in office.

"Scotland and the United States will continue to cooperate in those areas where we share common interests and goals, and when appropriate we will also look to have constructive dialogue on issues where our views differ."

During the American election campaign, Sturgeon endorsed Trump's rival, Hillary Clinton.

The First Minister also stripped Trump of an ambassadorial role for Scottish businesses with the devolved administration following his support for a ban on Muslims entering the country as he was "no longer fit" for the role.

Trump and Sturgeon spoke on the phone in December to discuss the two country's future relationship.