Sir Sean will be offering his perspective on Scotland

Organisers said Sir Sean's presence showed that this year's event promises to be "bigger and better" than the inaugural festival last year.

Sir Sean will take part in an In Conversation session with Presiding Officer George Reid.

Other guests at the festival, which will run from 23 to 26 August, have yet to be announced.

However, organisers have confirmed that the festival will host the prestigious World Press Photo exhibition as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

They have extended this year's festival by a day and promised attractions for the whole family, with debates, performances and workshops.

I look forward to quizzing Sir Sean on his life and work, his engagement with Scottish politics and what he will be doing next George Reid Presiding officer

Scottish National Party backer Sir Sean will offer his views on Scotland, "its politics and its place in the world" when he takes to the stage on 23 August.

Mr Reid said: "I look forward to quizzing Sir Sean on his life and work, his engagement with Scottish politics and what he will be doing next.

"Sir Sean's involvement in the festival is a mark, not only of the increasing profile of the event, but of the parliament taking its place on the world stage."

Sir Sean, patron of the Edinburgh International Film Festival, plans to spend 10 days in the Scottish capital in the summer, attending the major cultural event and celebrating its 60th birthday.