Spain Urged to Maintain Stance on Western Sahara Amid Morocco Tensions

In an interview with ABC, Oreja, 86, said that Spain must "try to reach an agreement with Morocco," without however "renouncing its values and principles". "Relations with Morocco have always been difficult, as well as with Algeria. Lately, there have been events that have tainted relations and tend to call into question our policy of balance with the North African countries, particularly on the Sahara issue," he said.

To read: Morocco Demands Clear Spanish Stance on Western Sahara Before Diplomatic Thaw

Morocco is certainly awaiting a "grand gesture" from Spain, in particular a change in its position on the Sahara, before restoring relations, but Spain, faithful to its principles, will not give in, Oreja assures.

The official, originally from the Basque Country, also addressed the issues of the integration of countries into the European Union, the weight of Spain in the Union and internationally in recent years, in particular its relations with the United States and its role in the fight against religious terrorism.