Spain to retaliate against Brussels delegation after deposed minister’s visit

Spain is to take “immediate” measures against the Catalan delegation in Brussels after a minister dismissed for his role in the independence bid participated in an cultural event there on Wednesday.

The deposed Catalan culture minister Lluís Puig is deemed a “fugitive,” according to sources from Spain’s foreign affairs ministry. Puig is facing a European Arrest Warrant along with two ministers who are also seeking refuge from the Spanish judiciary in Brussels. He is being prosecuted for an alleged crime disobedience and misuse of public funds. The Belgian judge dealing with his case allowed him and to other ministers to walk free while he considers the Spanish extradition request. 

Following a declaration of independence last October, the Spanish government triggered Article 155 of the Constitution to suspend Catalonia’s self-rule and dismiss president Carles Puigdemont and all his ministers. Puig is the first member of the cabinet to attend an event at the delegation since then.