Let's follow Wales' high flying universities and go global in a post-Brexit world, says Alun Cairns
The Welsh Secretary urged leaders from all sectors across Wales to follow the example of Wales' universities – by seeking opportunities in Europe and beyond.
Alun Cairns speaking at the Cardiff Met Annual Lecture / Alun Cairns yn siarad yn Narlith Blynyddol Prifysgol Metropolitan Caerdydd
On Thursday 10 November, Alun Cairns challenged the Welsh political establishment to use the example set by the higher education sector post-Brexit in a major speech at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
The Secretary of State for Wales urged leaders from all sectors across Wales to follow the example of Wales’ universities – by seeking opportunities in Europe and beyond.
Mr Cairns made the call in the Forum Annual Lecture which he delivered at the invitation of Cardiff Metropolitan University.
He said:
We must all take a positive approach to make the most of the change Brexit will bring about.
There is no better example of a university reaching out to the world than Cardiff Met. It is time to think about Wales in the wider world in five to 10 years’ time.
There has never been a greater need for a stable, outward looking, international approach from Government, business and universities here in the UK.
Mr Cairns added:
The Wales Bill is currently going through Parliament and is the opportunity to move discussion forward from convoluted constitutional debates to actually talking about the issues that really concern people on the doorstep.
Wales has always had a strong voice in the wider world through culture, industry and innovation and that the historic contribution of our country to the world and the links with diaspora communities that continue today. I want to grow and strengthen these vital links across the globe.
In this new post-Brexit world we have a tremendous opportunity, but also responsibility to work together – UK Government, Welsh Government and the people of Wales – to deliver a future that works for everyone.