FIRST Minister Nicola Sturgeon has called for “cool heads and patient persuasion” to win independence for Scotland.

Addressing delegates at the virtual SNP conference this morning, Sturgeon issued a rebuke to those pushing hard for independence.

Opening the conference, she called for party members to spend the months in the lead-up to the 2021 elections to persuade Scots of the benefits of the party and of independence.

She said: “Let us reach out to all of Scotland like never before.

“Let us demonstrate, with cool heads and patient persuasion, that Scotland is ready to take our place in the global family of independent nations.”

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon: Scotland 'on the cusp of making history' with independence 'in sight'

During her speech, the SNP leader said she “has never been so certain” that Scottish independence will happen.

Sturgeon told delegates the country is “on the brink of making history”.

She said: “Independence is in clear sight and if we show unity of purpose, humility and hard work, I have never been so certain that we will deliver it.

“The people of Scotland have the right to choose their future.

“Let us now focus all our efforts on making sure we bring about that better country that we and future generations deserve.

“An independent future lies ahead – let us grasp it.”

READ MORE: Kate Forbes says the next independence referendum will happen 'after the pandemic'

The First Minister also addressed the challenges Scotland and the world have faced over the year.

Dark times caused by the Covid-19 pandemic have “brought out the best in people”, she said.

“The Covid pandemic has taken thousands of lives, it has upended our society and severely damaged business and the economy.

“But these dark times have also brought out the very best in people.

“Every day I have seen examples of people across Scotland pulling together in a time of crisis to support each other.

“These last few months have reminded me what a privilege it is to serve as First Minister of our country.”