Assembly Members call for strategy to connect with the Welsh diaspora
A cross party group of Assembly Members is calling for Welsh Government to develop a clear strategy to connect with the Welsh diaspora.
The cross party group on Wales International wants to see further action to connect Wales with communities and individuals abroad of Welsh descent, or with other Welsh connections, to build a global network to promote Wales economically and culturally.
Chair of the group, Rhun ap Iorwerth AM, said: “We as a nation haven’t been strategic and determined enough to make the most of the Welsh diaspora. As well as connecting with those of Welsh descent, we should be doing more to capitalise on the goodwill of a wide variety of people abroad, such as former students of Welsh universities and businesses who have worked with Welsh companies, or those interested in Welsh culture. I will be writing to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure asking how the Government intends to develop a strategy on how Wales will build links internationally.”
At its last meeting on 14 February the group discussed the proactive work done by the Irish and Scottish governments to build links with their diasporas around the world.
Jenny Scott, director of British Council Wales, which provides support for the cross-party group, said: “Wales can use its expertise and connections built through education, art and sport to build its soft power around the world, and its diaspora could play an important part in building international relationships.”
The cross party group on Wales international was formed to help develop ideas on promoting Wales and the Assembly’s international relations.