Spain Defends Sahara Stance Amid Diplomatic Tensions with Algeria

"Spain has absolutely done nothing to find itself in this situation. What we want is to have the best relations with the Algerian people and its government, based on mutual respect, sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs," said Minister Albares in an interview granted on Sunday to El País, referring to the crisis between Algeria and Spain, opened after the change of position on the Sahara.

To read: Algeria Expands Trade Ban on Spanish Imports, Violating EU Agreement

Regarding the suspension of trade exchanges by Algeria, Albares explained that the cases of Spanish businessmen who are still encountering difficulties in importing to Algeria are being transferred to the European Commission, which is carrying out the necessary checks and providing appropriate solutions. Spain’s wish is that "this situation returns to normal," the minister said, assuring that the Executive will do everything to defend the interests of Spanish businessmen.

The head of Spanish diplomacy also stressed that the NATO summit to be held next week in Madrid will not fail to address the burning issues of the moment, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the jihadist terrorism spreading to the Sahel, after Iraq and Syria. According to Albares, Russia did not launch the war against Ukraine because it had requested to join NATO. "That’s not true. It’s part of a disinformation campaign. It was never on the table, and it’s not now either," he said.