The first annual “islands summit” was held between local authorities and the UK Government in Shetland yesterday.
The events have been organised in the wake of the Framework for the Islands that was published by Westminster officials last year.
Lerwick was the host for the talks, which featured leaders from Orkney, Shetland and Western Isles councils.
They discussed policies such as connection to the national energy grid, measures to address fuel poverty, and improving connectivity with mobile and internet services.
Scottish Secretary Alistair Carmichael, the MP for the northern isles, said: “I’m delighted at the progress that has been made to ensure the interests of the Scottish islands areas are ingrained in UK Government policy.
“In partnership with the islands councils, we have agreement on the first set of guidelines that aims to ensure that the unique circumstances of the islands are reflected in UK Government policy across a number of key areas including energy and welfare.
“I’m also pleased to confirm the first ever Islands Oil and Gas forum will take place next month.
“This builds on the positive announcements for the oil and gas sector in yesterday’s Budget and will focus on issues affecting island communities such as community benefit and decommissioning.
“This summit today takes this work to the next stage and together with further powers on the way to Scotland through the Smith Commission process there is scope to do even more in the months ahead.”
Gary Robinson, leader of Shetland Islands Council, said: “We’re delighted to have hosted this first islands summit in Shetland.
“This will be an important mechanism in the years ahead to allow the three islands to regularly meet with the Secretary of State for Scotland, along with key civil servants, to monitor progress against the Framework for the Islands which was agreed last August.
“We’re pleased with the progress we’ve made with the UK government, even over this short period of time, and it’s extremely important we maintain the momentum we’ve generated beyond May’s general election.”