Catalonia Controversy: Minister Montero Urges Popular Party to Reconsider Rhetoric
In a heated exchange on Thursday, María Jesús Montero, the First Vice President of the Government and Minister of Finance, called on the Popular Party (PP) to cease its political attacks against Catalonia. Her remarks came during a requested appearance designed to clarify the unique financing agreement negotiated between the Spanish government and the pro-independence party ERC, as part of Salvador Illa's investiture as the president of the Generalitat.
Montero criticized the PP for what she described as an irresponsible fiscal policy, asserting that their continuous negative rhetoric towards Catalonia indicates a lack of understanding of the issues at hand. "Every time the PP attacks Catalonia, it shows that they have understood nothing. They need to stop doing politics in Spain against Catalonia," she stated emphatically.
The core of Montero's defense revolved around the need to discuss regional financing and to promote equality among Spanish territories. She lamented the PP's refusal to engage in constructive dialogue on these critical issues, suggesting that such a stance contributes to ongoing tensions.
In contrast, PP spokesman Juan Bravo retorted, accusing Montero of failing to provide concrete details about the agreement with ERC during her intervention, and instead focusing on critiquing his party. "This approach betrays the principles of coexistence and undermines the equality among Spaniards," Bravo asserted, expressing concerns that the pact with ERC could jeopardize national unity.
The disagreement highlights the deep political divides in Spain concerning issues of autonomy and funding for regions like Catalonia. As both parties gear up for ongoing discussions, the call for a more collaborative and less adversarial approach appears critical for future governance and national cohesion.
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