Leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to meet in Cardiff on Monday to discuss plans for greater self-determination and the possibility of leaving the United Kingdom.
The meeting is expected to result in the signing of a memorandum of understanding aimed at opening discussions on the future of the three countries within the UK.
According to The Telegraph, Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, Wales’ First Minister Rhun ap Iowerth and Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill are expected to sign the agreement.
The United Kingdom comprises England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
While England and Scotland formally united in 1707 to form Great Britain, Ireland joined the union in 1801.
Most of Ireland became independent in 1922, while Northern Ireland remained part of the UK.
The push for self-determination comes as debates over Scottish independence and Irish reunification continue to gain momentum.
Swinney said the emergence of pro-independence leaders in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland showed that the existing political arrangement was no longer sustainable.
“For the first time, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are led by pro-independence first ministers,” Swinney was quoted as saying.
“There could be no clearer sign that the status quo is not sustainable and that Westminster must prepare for a post-UK future.”
He said the Cardiff meeting would provide an opportunity to discuss a new political direction and called independence the path to a “fresh start”.
The meeting also comes a day after US President Donald Trump expressed support for Irish reunification during a visit to Dublin.
Trump said he would like to see a united Ireland and described Northern Ireland joining the Republic of Ireland as “a great thing”.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said last Wednesday that he would authorise another Scottish independence referendum if there was sufficient public demand for one.
Part of Monday’s meeting is expected to focus on mounting pressure on Westminster to approve another referendum on Scottish independence.
