The positive action Wales is taking towards making the world a better place will be a key part of the Welsh Government’s new international strategy to promote Wales across the globe, Minister for International Relations, Eluned Morgan will say today.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Speaking at the Wales International Development Summit in Cardiff, the minister will set out her ambition of making sure the world knows Wales is a truly globally-responsible nation, committed to sustainability and protecting the future generations.
In 2006, the Welsh Government launched the Wales for Africa programme, which encourages people to get involved in mutually-beneficial links between Wales and Africa, helping make the world a better place.
Through this programme, hundreds of grassroots Wales Africa and Fair Trade groups have been supported to work to help deliver the UN’s sustainable development goals in partnership with counterparts in Africa.
Thanks to Wales for Africa:
- In 2008 Wales was recognised as the world’s first ever Fair Trade Nation. Being a Fair Trade Nation means that people, organisations and the public sector in Wales know the importance of treating all people fairly and ensuring that the farmers and workers in supply chains are treated with dignity and respect
- Size of Wales now protect an area of rainforest twice the size of Wales and in conjunction with the Welsh Government are planting 10 million trees in the Mbale region of Uganda. These trees, planted in the coffee gardens of poor farmers, are providing fruit, shade, firewood and timber whilst protecting and improving the soil and absorbing and fixing carbon – over 9 million trees have been planted so far
- Grassroots community and international development groups work towards sustainable development goals in Wales and in over 25 African countries on health, lifelong learning, sustainable livelihoods and climate action
Minister for International Relations, Eluned Morgan said:
“The UK’s decision to leave the European Union marks a fundamental shift in our international environment and presents a clear demand for a new and refocused international strategy that clearly communicates our approach to engagement with the rest of the world.
“So as part of that new international strategy, I want the world to know that Wales takes global responsibility seriously. I want the world to know Wales has always been and remains an outward looking nation with a proud history of internationalism and solidarity with communities experiencing poverty across the world.
“We are a country full of people that give time and energy to building better communities, a better Wales, and a better world for future generations.
“This is the Wales I want - a globally responsible nation committed to sustainability and future generations.”