On Monday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez defended the need for a “stronger, more autonomous, and more cohesive” Europe at the World in Progress forum, in the face of the rise of far-right forces.
RELATED: Sanchez Vows to Protect Abortion Rights in Spain’s Constitution
In the context of a new European electoral cycle and the approach of the Spanish general elections on November 29, Sanchez warned of the risk of setbacks in hard-won freedoms and rights.
The Prime Minister identified the strategic competition between the United States and China, and disputes over energy resources as major international challenges.
Sanchez championed his government’s commitment to the energy transition, highlighting the increased share of renewable energy in Spanish electricity production as a tool to reduce economic vulnerability.
He also pointed to the growth in economic activity, increased employment, and a reduction in the deficit and public debt within a complex international environment.
The president acknowledged, however, that significant problems for citizens persist, especially access to housing and the rising cost of living, issues that have sparked social mobilizations and protests.
Sanchez defended the housing measures implemented by his government and maintained that it is possible to reconcile economic growth, social protection, job creation, and ecological transition.
During his address, he criticized the rapprochement of some European conservative parties with the far right and warned that certain political forces seek to foster fragmentation within the European Union.
He stated that “Spain is not governed from Washington, Tel Aviv, or Buenos Aires.” The head of government asserted that democracy and human rights require constant defense and rejected any attempt at institutional weakening by extremist actors.
teleSUR: JP
Source: El Pais
