The executive wants to promote a progressive image

First Minister Jack McConnell has instigated the move as part of his drive to boost the falling population.

The think-tank will work on a slogan highlighting what Scotland has to offer in the 21st century.

The message will then be used by all public bodies which promote Scotland. Recent figures showed the population could fall below five million by 2027.

A spokeswoman for the first minister said Mr McConnell wanted the slogan to combine the traditional image of Scotland while highlighting the country's "vibrant" modern-day culture.

One of the questions that has been asked by people abroad is 'does Scotland have any roads?' Scottish Executive spokeswoman

She said: "Right across the world there is an acknowledgement that people know about Scotland.

"Most people can point to the history and the beautiful scenery, but they don't see Scotland as a modern country.

"One of the questions that has been asked by people abroad is 'does Scotland have any roads?'.

"The first minister doesn't want to forget about the nation's heritage, but he wants to move on and talk about modern Scotland and its vibrant cities."

The spokeswoman said the advertising experts were called in several months ago and are expected to launch their slogan in the spring.

The message will then be used by bodies such as tourism agency VisitScotland, Scotland Development International and UK embassies around the globe.

Mr McConnell launched an initiative last year to attract more people from abroad to visit and live in Scotland.