The Spanish Prime Minister outlines his foreign policy strategy focused on reinforcing European unity and strategic partnerships amid global challenges.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has issued a call to fortify the European Union in the face of what he describes as a 'reactionary international' aiming to dismantle the European project.
Speaking at the IX Conference of Spanish Ambassadors, a gathering of over 130 senior diplomatic representatives, Sánchez emphasized the importance of a unified and robust Europe, stating that 'Europe is the best thing that has happened to our country in centuries.' His vision includes a more just, green, social, strong, and unified EU.
In outlining Spain's foreign policy priorities, Sánchez expressed a commitment to strengthening strategic relations with both the United States and China.
In light of
Donald Trump's return to the U.S. presidency, Sánchez emphasized the critical nature of the U.S. as an 'indispensable ally' in addressing current global challenges.
He underscored the importance of upholding a strong and efficient multilateralism and defending democratic systems against hybrid attacks and misinformation.
Additionally, the Prime Minister highlighted the need to fortify strategic ties with the U.S. at a time when global geopolitics are increasingly complex.
Without directly mentioning Trump or topics like Greenland, Sánchez advocated for maintaining the post-World War II and Cold War multilateral order, which he warned is facing unprecedented scrutiny amid discussions about redrawing borders and interfering in democratic processes.
Sánchez also praised Spain's relations with Latin America and the Caribbean while deliberately omitting any reference to Venezuela.
He painted a picture of a world plagued by unrest, pointing to assassination attempts and significant electoral interferences in countries like Romania, Moldova, and Georgia.
He criticized 'fake elections' used by authoritarian regimes to mask their disregard for individual liberties and popular will.
Placing the EU at the forefront of his foreign policy agenda, Sánchez warned of 'very powerful enemies' seeking to divide the Union.
He stressed Spain's role in pushing for deeper integration and enlargement, while also advocating for reinforced European security and defense industries, drawing lessons from support given to Ukraine.
However, Sánchez assured there would be no push towards a 'militaristic drift' that could lead to a new arms race.
Promoting an 'open Spain against protectionism,' Sánchez emphasized the country's dedication to the values enshrined in its Constitution amidst a 'more hostile and antagonistic world.' He expressed concern over a 'reactionary international' seeking to weaken and disunite Europe.
Reaffirming Spain's commitment to constitutional values, Sánchez declared, 'We will not abandon our values, which are the values of our Constitution, and we will defend and promote them with more determination.' He voiced alarm over the erosion of international law, rampant human rights violations, and the rise of far-right extremism in Europe.
Asserting Spain's continued advocacy for human rights and international law, Sánchez pledged to champion a 'liberal and plural, open, transparent, and integral democracy,' as these principles face rising challenges.
Moreover, confronting 'autarchic temptations and border closures,' he insisted that 'Spain will continue to bet on openness, an economy open to internationalization, and intelligent migration management for sustained growth.'