Spanish Opposition Slams Foreign Minister’s Failure to Mend Morocco Relations

In an interview with Europa Press, Martínez regrets the status quo observed in the major foreign policy issues, particularly relations with Morocco, Algeria and the United States, since Albares’ arrival. "I would like to say the opposite," but "today’s Spain is not respected abroad," she laments, stressing that Sánchez and Albares "are not respected" and have no clear agenda or strategy.

To read: Spain’s Foreign Minister Calls for Patience in Rebuilding Morocco Relations

Martinez notes the lack of progress in resolving the diplomatic crisis with Morocco. Yet, after his appointment last July, Albares had asked "for time and discretion to resolve the crisis and told us that he knew very well how he had to do it," recalls the deputy who notes in the end that the lines have not moved. "The Moroccan ambassador to Madrid has still not returned to her post and the borders are still closed," she deplores.

To read: article 88118

The PP admits not having a magic solution to resolve the crisis with Morocco, but believes that the Minister of Foreign Affairs should change his approach because obviously "what is being done currently, is not working". "The government must take this issue seriously," adds Martinez, also stressing the importance of relations with Algeria and the need to guarantee gas supply from that country.

To read: Spain’s New Foreign Minister Prioritizes Strengthening Ties with Morocco

The minister "has demonstrated his inability to have good relations with his teams and his people" and "this does not facilitate dialogue with the other ministers," indicates Martinez, noting for example that he has still not met his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita. Nevertheless, Martinez hopes that the situation will evolve positively in the coming months. This is why she asks Albares to "put an end to the propaganda" and to "take foreign policy seriously".