Clinton said that Scotland leaving the U.K. would carry 'substantial' financial risks. Bill Clinton: Vote 'no' in Scotland

Former President Bill Clinton has issued a statement urging Scots to reject the upcoming independence referendum.

In a statement released through the pro-unity Better Together campaign, the 42nd president said Scots could send “a powerful message of both identity and inclusion” by voting to stay within the United Kingdom.


“With so much turmoil and division across the globe, I hope the Scots will inspire the world with a high turnout and a powerful message of both identity and inclusion,” Clinton said in the statement.

He began his statement by saying he was “reluctant” to offer his personal views on the matter, given that the Scots alone should make their decision regarding Thursday’s referendum on whether to stay in the UK or become independent.

“I understand and sympathize with those who want independence,” he added, citing Scotland’s natural resources and independent spirit.

But Clinton said that Scotland leaving the UK would carry “substantial” financial risks, suggesting the proposal to maintain the pound as its national currency and the separation process could weaken the economy and cause instability.

He closed by appearing to link Thursday’s vote with the greater instability in the world, saying that Scotland can show the world how to work through conflict with unity.

“Unity with maximum self-determination sends a powerful message to a world torn by identity conflicts that it is possible to respect our differences while living and working together,” Clinton concluded. “This is the great challenge of our time. The Scots can show us how to meet it.”

President Barack Obama also voiced his support for unity, taking to Twitter on Wednesday.

“The UK is an extraordinary partner for America and a force for good in an unstable world. I hope it remains strong, robust and united,” the president tweeted.

Recent polls suggest Thursday will be a tight vote to determine whether Scotland will declare independence from the UK.

The White House has not declared a position on the issue, but press secretary Josh Earnest on Monday hinted that President Barack Obama would prefer a “no” vote.

“This is a decision for the people of Scotland to make,” Earnest said. “We certainly respect the right of individual Scots to make a decision along these lines. But, you know, as the president himself said, we have an interest in seeing the United Kingdom remain strong, robust, united and an effective partner,” he said, echoing a similar statement made by Obama at a June joint news conference with British Prime Minister David Cameron.