Catalonia Parliament Declares Independence From Spain Weeks After Their Successful Referendum.

The Catalonia parliament has passed a motion for the establishment of an independent Catalan Republic. This was followed by massive cheers from thousands of supporters outside the parliament’s building.

The regional President, Carles Puigdemont and Vice President Oriol Junqueras exchanged congratulatory embraces and handshakes after the vote, which saw 70 out of 135 votes in favor of independence, 10 against and 2 blank ballots. Most opposition lawmakers had left the chamber in protest moments before the vote.

Spain opposes the independence bid and the national government in Madrid is preparing measures to take over control of the northeastern region. No country has however expressed support for the secession bid.

Thousands of people gathered to watch the voting process and the counting live on big screens.