Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland sign memorandum on self-determination

The first ministers of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland signed a memorandum on the right to self-determination on Monday, September 14.

This took place during the summit of Celtic nations being held in the Welsh city of Cardiff.

The document officially confirms the right of each of the three nations to independently determine its own future. The broadcast of this historic event was carried by the main television channels of the United Kingdom.

Before the start of the press conference, John Swinney (Scotland), Rhun ap Iorwerth (Wales) and Michelle O'Neill (Northern Ireland) approved the final text of the agreement. In addition to political status, the parties intend to deepen their partnership in the areas of the economy, energy and building international ties.

First Minister of Wales Rhun ap Iorwerth stated that his cabinet has a «clear mandate» to carry out reforms. According to the politician, the current political situation requires radical changes in the governance of the region.

At the same time, the head of the Scottish government, John Swinney, focused on the constitutional question.

He recalled that the people of Scotland must decide their own fate independently, without outside pressure.

Incidentally, this thesis traditionally remains key to the Scottish national agenda and enjoys broad support among local elites.

Michelle O'Neill, representing Northern Ireland, noted that the events of more than a century ago, when the island was divided, did not bring positive results for the local population. She also reproached London for ignoring the interests of the Irish when making decisions over the course of decades.

Despite the signing of the declaration, the document is of a framework nature and does not for now change the current legal status of the territories within the United Kingdom. Lawyers note that the memorandum creates only a political basis for further negotiations with London.

Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta