President Obama spoke out against Scotland’s request for Independence on Thursday during a meeting with the British Prime Minister, David Cameron, in Brussels.
According to The Associated Press, Prime Minister Cameron mentioned the issues Britain has been having recently with the European Union (EU) getting involved in the nation’s personal matters. He has considered leaving the EU and promises to hold a poll on the matter. Company lobbyists in Britain are concerned with his idea and fear that such a move would harm and weaken Britain’s economy by being cut off from the largest free trade zone and strong political bloc. Obama argued in favor of Britain remaining part of the EU.
Obama was also asked what his opinion was on Scotland gaining independence from The United Kingdom. His response clearly demonstrated that he thought Scotland should remain part of the U.K. “We obviously have a deep interest in making sure that one of the closest allies that we will ever have remains a strong, robust, united and effective partner. But ultimately these are decisions that are going to be made by the folks there”, he said, according to BBC News.
The Scotland First Minister, Alex Salmond, responded by quoting Obama’s slogan, “Yes we can”. He stated that Scotland’s independence would actually be beneficial because it would give America two good friends instead of just one. He also expressed gratitude that Scotland is a democracy and can vote for their independence.