Iceland is the nation which has been most open and welcoming to the prospect of Scottish independence. Our near neighbour boasts an enviable social, environmental & economic record. It also has lovely people from top to bottom. In a small way this represents the international community that Scotland will join with a ‘Yes’ vote; and the Nordic community within which Scotland can develop closer ties.
Here are some of them!
Sigmundur Davíð, Prime Minister of Iceland:
He said he would “welcome Scotland with a new, thriving relationship” after it became independent.
Olafur Grimsson, President of Iceland:
President Grumsson welcomed the prospect of Scotland voting ‘Yes’ saying that “independence can be the road towards prosperity and a good society.”
Jon Gnarr, Mayor of Reykjavik:
Johannes Thor, Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister:
“There are lots of opportunities for Scotland to co-operate with the Nordics.”
Iceland has a “fairly good feeling towards nations becoming independent.”
Sigur Ros, one of Iceland’s most successful bands support National Collective at their Glasgow gig:
Professor Alison Bailes, Political Science Department, University of Iceland:
“I personally find the idea of Scottish independence more exciting than threatening. I have personal connections to the North-East of England. I think most people in the North-Sea would say ‘Good luck!’ “
Jon Olafsson, Member of the Icelandic Parliament for Reykjavik South:
Should Scotland be independent? “Of course. It’s about self-determination.”
Smari McCarthy, Executive Director of the Icelandic Modern Media Initiative:
Ari Gisli, bookshop owner in Reykjavik:
Should Scotland be an independent country? “Yes, definitely. I think they should and keep good relations with their neighbours. Our minds and our capacity has grown and we can handle the challenges.”
Itziar Meagher, Reykjavik student:
Should Scotland be an independent country? “Yeah, sure. No doubt. Many reasons: you can take decisions for yourself. You are a different country. I believe that you are.”
Hildur Gudrun Thorleifsdottir, Kex Hotel:
Should Scotland be an independent country? “Of course, yeah. Because you are different from Britain. Scotland is a country. Why shouldn’t it be? Because I am an independent person, of course it is great!”
Kari Thorsteinsson, Chef at Kex hostel
Should Scotland be an independent country? “For sure. For the same reason that Iceland is independent.”
Harpa Hrund Palsdottir, Student:
Should Scotland be an independent country? “It depends on so many things. I’d say you should give it a try! Why not? I’ve always thought of Scotland as an independent country.”
Bara, from Kex Hostel:
Should Scotland be an independent country? “Yes because it’s logical! All countries should be independent. I don’t know if that’s a stupid thing to say?”
Bjorn Stefansson, Arni vilhjalmsson & Orn Agustson, Reykjavik students:
Should Scotland be an independent country? “Yes. Go for it!” “Definitely.” “Of course you should vote yes!”
Michael Gray
@GrayInGlasgow
National COllective
Iceland for independence: leading politicians, academics & musicians welcoming Scotland to the world. http://t.co/qj9tfl8PIh #indyref
— Michael Gray (@GrayInGlasgow) February 21, 2014
