Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland sign document on the right to self-determination

London, Sept 14 (KUNA) -- The first ministers of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland signed a document today in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, outlining joint efforts to achieve their goal of self-determination and independence from the United Kingdom. The document was signed by Scottish First Minister John Swinney, Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill, and Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald. It states that "each of our nations has the right to determine its future through democratic means in accordance with the will of our peoples."

The document further asserts that "our nations have the right to self-determination, and no government has the right to obstruct democracy or undermine the principle that our peoples will decide their own future... We call on the British government to prepare for, plan, and facilitate constitutional change in each jurisdiction."

The document outlines a path forward based on the nations working together as equals, exchanging ideas and expertise, and building relationships grounded in mutual respect and shared interests. The three nations expressed their desire to rejoin the European Union, describing Europe as a "shared home," and noted that "Brexit has harmed our economies and limited opportunities for our peoples."

The document also emphasizes that the future of the three nations lies in working within the European Union to rebuild and strengthen European relations, thereby creating greater opportunities for trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated last Wednesday, in response to parliamentary questions, that a second independence referendum for Scotland could be held if there is "clear public support." The UK Prime Minister's Office later reaffirmed that the Prime Minister's position opposing a second Scottish independence referendum remains unchanged.

Regarding Northern Ireland, Burnham maintains support for the Good Friday Agreement, which grants the region the right to leave the United Kingdom and join a united Ireland if certain conditions are met. On the issue of Wales, Burnham does not support Welsh independence and instead favors granting Wales greater powers within the United Kingdom. (End)