3. Statement by the First Minister: Delivering the International Strategy

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:53 pm on 11 November 2020.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mandy Jones Mandy Jones UKIP 3:53, 11 November 2020

I thank the Minister for that statement today. I'm thrilled that the UK is on the threshold of becoming an independent sovereign nation, and I welcome the update on the strategy that will continue the journey to get Wales firmly on the world map and keep it there.

I would like to raise the issue of branding. I know that the old Welsh Development Agency brand was also seen as the brand of Wales, but I've never seen or understood what brand Wales actually looks like, since its demise. And if I don't know, how will businesses and people in the far reaches of the world know? So, my first question is: what does your strategy mean for a brand for Wales?

I do think that sport is a major key area, where we can build on our impressive reputation for excellence. But we need to be ready to grab unexpected opportunities, especially now, in post-pandemic times.

I mentioned in this Chamber a few weeks ago the likely victory of Elfyn Evans in the World Rally Championship series. This, to my mind, is one of those unexpected opportunities that need to be seized on. I did indeed get an answer from the Minister on the future for Wales Rally GB next year, but it was so non-committal, it was actually meaningless. First Minister, does your strategy allow Wales to be fleet of foot and able to react with speed to events and triumphs that may come along unexpectedly? I do appreciate the focus on Wales as a nation of creativity, innovation and technology. However, the closing down of Inner Space in Newport, an organisation set up to monopolise these very areas, does not appear to sit well with this part of the strategy. So, how will you make sure that policy decisions are joined up and meet all of your Government's own requirements, like future generations, sustainability and environment? Wales remains, for now, an integral part of the United Kingdom, and there are four Governments competing in the same space, all making, I imagine, similar claims about landscape, culture and history. How does the Welsh Government intend to work with the other UK Governments to ensure every nation gets a fair share of air time, for want of a better expression. And, alternatively, what steps are you taking to find the USP for Wales?

First Minister, I have seen the recent announcement of the envoy to the United Arab Emirates. I very much applaud this approach. It appears we have very impressive people with excellent credentials literally flying the flag for Wales. My final question, First Minister, is how will your Government assess the efficacy of your strategy? I'd be interested to know what success looks like to you and your Government at this moment in time. Thank you very much.