The Alliance Party has joined the umbrella European liberal movement as an affiliate member.
The party joined the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) Party yesterday (Saturday) after its application was approved unanimously by the ALDE Council. Alliance is now one of 63 liberal parties across 43 countries in the movement.
“I am delighted Alliance has joined the ALDE Party as an affiliate member,” said Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA.
“It is so important we continue to build strong relationships with other liberal parties across Europe, especially with the challenges of Brexit impacting upon Northern Ireland and the wider UK already. Many of the members of ALDE will be voting on the final Brexit deal and it is important we have that progressive, liberal voice heard.”
ALDE Party President Hans van Baalen MEP added: “Alliance has always been part of the European liberal family, with its progressive and positive values. I am delighted to welcome them to ALDE and I look forward to our future cooperation together.”