Spanish Foreign Minister Sparks Controversy with Pro-Morocco Stance

Barely invested in his new functions, the new head of Spanish diplomacy is already facing the anger of Podemos, protector of the Polisario. During a lively exchange in Parliament on the position of Madrid on Cuba, the party of Ione Belarra reproached José Manuel Albares for having described Morocco as a "great friend" of Spain. Podemos accuses the Spanish government in general and the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs in particular of defending an "authoritarian regime".

José Manuel Albares, who officially took office last Monday, promised to "strengthen relations with Morocco, a great friend", reports El Pais. "Morocco has ceased to consider González Laya as a valid interlocutor after the Brahim Ghali crisis," he said. The management of the diplomatic crisis between the two countries led to the departure of Arancha González Laya. Pedro Sánchez appointed José Manuel Albares - a diplomat presented as the Spanish Prime Minister’s sherpa on many international files - to replace her.