Mr Trump will join the the Globalscot network to promote Scotland

It came as the billionaire New Yorker ended a three-day visit to Scotland in which he promoted a �300m golf course he plans for Aberdeenshire.

After accepting an invitation from First Minister Jack McConnell, Mr Trump will join a network of influential people who promote the country.

Mr Trump said his Scottish roots had, in part, aided his success.

His mother is from the Western Isles.

He said: "As an international businessman I've enjoyed success over the years and I like to think that part of my achievement can be attributed to my Scottish roots.

As an international businessman I've enjoyed success over the years and I like to think that part of my achievement can be attributed to my Scottish roots Donald Trump

"For a long time I've been aware that Scottish people are fiercely proud of Scotland and that they like to help their fellow countrymen."

Mr McConnell said he was delighted the tycoon had taken up the offer, adding: "This is a good bit of business for all concerned."

Course controversy

On Friday Mr Trump visited the Menie Estate in Aberdeenshire, where he hopes to create the "best golf course in the world".

The �300m resort will include two golf courses, a six-storey, 500-room hotel in Victorian style and a golf academy.

Opposition parties have claimed the first minister has broken strict rules requiring ministers to remain neutral about planning applications through his association with Mr Trump, whom he has met twice in the US.

This was rejected by the Scottish Executive, who said the first minister and Mr Trump had never discussed the Menie Estate application.

Mr Trump features in the US equivalent of The Apprentice TV programme, which has been so successful in the UK under the watchful eye of Alan Sugar.