Spain opposes opening of new Catalan delegations abroad

Pro-independence executive will inaugurate six new offices without Madrid’s approval

Catalonia's foreign minister Ernest Maragall (right) and his Spanish counterpart, Josep Borrell (by Tània Tàpia)
Catalonia's foreign minister Ernest Maragall (right) and his Spanish counterpart, Josep Borrell (by Tània Tàpia) / ACN

ACN | Barcelona

November 9, 2018 11:05 AM

The Catalan government will open six new delegations abroad despite opposition from the Spanish foreign ministry, which issued a non-binding report stating that the aim of the offices is contrary to Madrid’s interests.  

"This confirms the foreign ministry’s direct attack on Catalonia’s action abroad," said Ernest Maragall, the Catalan minister for foreign affairs. "They won’t stop us."

While the opening of new foreign offices requires Spain’s assessment, their inauguration can only be challenged if their activities are deemed illegal.

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