Ireland and Scotland Launch New Bilateral Cooperation Framework 2030 to Deepen Ties

New Framework Unveiled in Dublin

On November 26, 2025, Ireland and Scotland formally launched the new Bilateral Cooperation Framework 2030 during a meeting at Iveagh House in Dublin. The framework was introduced by Ireland's Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, and Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney MSP. The initiative is designed to provide strategic direction and concrete actions to further deepen the relationship between the two countries over the next five years.

Minister Richmond emphasized the strong historical and modern connections, stating, 'Ireland and Scotland share deep, historic ties and a modern partnership rooted in shared values, cultural closeness and economic opportunity.' First Minister Swinney echoed this sentiment, noting that Ireland 'holds a special place in Scotland's priorities' and that both nations 'have much to gain by working together.'

Key Pillars of Cooperation

The new framework builds upon the successes of a previous cooperation framework that spanned 2021-2025, expanding on six thematic areas where the Scottish Government holds devolved responsibility. The 2030 framework outlines several key areas for enhanced collaboration:

• Renewable Energy: A significant focus is placed on offshore renewable energy, with entities like ESB and SSE having already invested substantially in both countries' renewable sectors.
• Research and Academic Links: Fostering stronger ties between educational institutions, including collaborations in space research between UCD and the University of Strathclyde.
• Cultural Exchange: Promoting cultural and sporting links, supported by organizations such as Culture Ireland, GAA Scotland, the Royal Irish Academy, and the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
• Economic and Trade Development: Strengthening trade relationships, with over 300 Enterprise Ireland companies exporting to Scotland and a new Enterprise Ireland office opening in Glasgow.
• Diaspora Engagement: Connecting the large Irish and Scottish diasporas, particularly in Canada and the US.
• Language Preservation: Supporting Irish and Scots Gaelic speaking communities, with Údarás na Gaeltachta deepening cooperation with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Broader Context and Future Ambitions

The launch of the Bilateral Cooperation Framework 2030 comes amidst a broader 'reset' in relations between Britain and Ireland, and it is supported by the UK-Ireland Joint Statement 2030. The framework aims to provide a high-level, action-oriented plan for cooperation until the end of the decade.

First Minister Swinney also highlighted Ireland's 'golden combination' of independence and EU membership as a potential template for Scotland's future, underscoring the deep admiration and shared ambitions between the two nations. The officials also discussed current political developments and looked forward to the upcoming British Irish Council Summit in Cardiff in December.