Fernando Clavijo's Historical Shift in Canary Islands Politics
The president of the Canary Islands government, Fernando Clavijo, has made a significant historical decision by decisively breaking away from the ideological ambiguities that have long characterized the politics of the archipelago. By reaffirming unwavering support for Morocco's autonomy initiative regarding Western Sahara, Clavijo not only aligns his region with the diplomatic stance of the Spanish state but also opts for realism over the illusions of the past. This bold gesture marks the end of an era of complacency towards the separatist narratives of the Polisario, which have often been seen as obstacles to regional development.
This shift in posture is not merely a diplomatic courtesy; it reflects a profound understanding of the security and stability challenges at play. Clavijo recognizes that the destabilization and maintenance of doubt, strategies favored by the Polisario for decades, can in no way substitute for solid bilateral relations. By turning his back on those who disrupt Moroccan-Spanish relations, the Canary Islands president prioritizes clarity and international legitimacy as embodied by the United Nations framework.
Strengthening Ties with Morocco Through Pragmatism
Recent events, such as the welcoming of a delegation from the Souss-Massa region in Las Palmas, exemplify this new dynamic. By receiving Karim Achengli and over 80 business representatives, Clavijo is transforming political rhetoric into concrete actions. This institutional rapprochement demonstrates that the Canary Islands now see themselves as a natural partner in Moroccan development, rejecting previous influences that sought to divide the two shores.
On the economic front, pragmatism now prevails over sterile debates. The regional government's "Africa Plan" is particularly telling in this regard: any mention of the Polisario has been deliberately omitted in favor of enhanced cooperation with Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal. This intentional exclusion signals that the economic future of the archipelago is being built with sovereign nations and reliable partners capable of providing real opportunities for growth and investment.
The key sectors of this collaboration are numerous and strategic. The Canary Islands' expertise in water desalination, infrastructure management, and technological research is now finding a receptive audience in Morocco's southern provinces. Businesses from both regions are increasingly engaging to bring joint projects to fruition, proving that mutual interest is the strongest bond for lasting peace and shared prosperity.
As reported by atalayar.com.
