PNV's Stance on Government Response to Migration Crisis
Aitor Esteban, President of the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), has expressed concerns regarding the Spanish government's handling of the recent influx of immigrants into Ceuta. He articulated that the government is currently overwhelmed, suggesting that Morocco might be exerting pressure on Spain, potentially even engaging in a form of blackmail. In a recent interview with _El Correo_, Esteban asserted that as the next electoral cycle approaches, the PNV will not act as a support for either the Popular Party (PP) or the Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE); instead, it will prioritize the defense of Euskadi's interests.
Reflecting on the Ceuta crisis, Esteban pointed to newly declassified documents from Spain's National Intelligence Center (CNI) that indicate prior warnings about a possible large-scale influx of immigrants. He criticized the government for not adequately preparing for this eventuality, stating that the necessary coordination and attention were lacking from the beginning. "The government has been and continues to be overwhelmed," he remarked, adding that he would not rule out the possibility that Morocco possesses undisclosed leverage that intensifies the pressure on the Spanish government.
Calls for Policy Reevaluation in Immigration Management
Esteban made it clear that Spain must explore all options for returning Moroccan citizens and emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts with sub-Saharan Africans to find suitable solutions. Regarding unaccompanied minors, he stressed that family reunification should be prioritized and that Morocco must take responsibility for its nationals. He asserted that the government needs to reorganize its immigration model as the current influx exceeds Spain's capacity to manage effectively.
In Euskadi, while the coalition with the Basque Socialists is functioning, Esteban clarified that the PNV's policies towards Pedro Sánchez's government remain independent and are not influenced by this partnership. He stated, "We strive to be faithful to our country and our electorate without resorting to outbursts. We are not a crutch for anyone, neither for the PP nor for the PSOE." Esteban also dismissed accusations from the PSE-EE regarding the PNV's inability to address social needs, pointing out that the PNV had already implemented income guarantee measures long before the PSOE was influenced by Pablo Iglesias to introduce a minimum vital income.
As reported by theobjective.com.
