Cornwall is set to strengthen its relationship with Brittany

Cornwall is set to strengthen its relationship with Brittany on important areas such as trade, fishing and agriculture in a bid to work together in a post-Brexit world to benefit residents and businesses.

On March 24 Cornwall Council’s leader, Julian German, signed what is known as a Memorandum of Understanding with the President of Brittany, Loïg Chesnais-Girard.

The agreement between Cornwall Council and Brittany Council is important as it will help to build strong relations with a neighbouring European region at a time of a changing relationship with the EU.

It aims to open up increased dialogue to help deal with shared challenges – and could be instrumental in helping to solve issues in areas such as fishing and marine resources, trade, transport and ports, climate change, mobility and youth, tourism and culture.

Julian German said: “While we are no longer part of the EU, Cornwall is an outward looking region and we want to strengthen our friendship with our neighbours in Brittany.

“With many industries facing challenges and change as they adapt to life outside of the EU, this agreement will be another way in which we can work together for everyone’s benefit and to solve problems that come our way.”

Loïg Chesnais-Girard said: “Brexit is not the end of the story. Our friends in Cornwall will remain our closest neighbours.

“As we share a common history, people in Brittany have always looked across the Channel for partnership. Today we need dialogue and cooperation more than ever.

“I’m convinced our excellent relationship will enable us to find common solutions and shared projects, to the mutual benefit of our people and industries.”

Tim Dwelly, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Economy and Planning, said: “As we adjust to post-Brexit life, working proactively with our friends on the other side of the Channel is really important.

“We have much in common with our counterparts in Brittany and I am sure that this agreement will only help to strengthen that bond for the good of us all.”

Images: Loïg Chesnais-Girard President of Council of Brittany (above) and Councillor Julian German Leader of Cornwall Council (below).

Link: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/council-news-room/media-releases/news-from-2021/new-from-march-2021/cornwall-and-brittany-to-strengthen-relationship/