Pledge for Palestine

SPAIN plans to recognise Palestine as a state, but they want to make sure other European Union countries also support this decision.

The Spanish Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares met with his Palestinian counterpart, Riad Al Malki to discuss this and other issues on Wednesday, April 26.

Prior to his election, Pedro Sánchez promised to recognise Palestine if he came into power, but is still waiting for the right moment to do so. Currently, 10 out of 27 EU countries have recognised Palestine as a state.

The Palestinian territories

€163 million for drought

ON Tuesday, April 25, the Governing Council of the Junta de Andalucia approved the third decree against the drought. It entailed the allocation of €163 million in hydraulic works and aid. The measure is forecast to provide some 184 cubic hectometres for supply and irrigation and plans to benefit almost three million Andalucians.

The Andalucian Government revealed that this third decree brings the funding allocated in response to the lack of water suffered by the Community to €300 million.

are currently occupied by Israel, who are building illegal settlements and imposing a near ­ total blockade on Gaza, severely restricting Palestinian people’s abilities to access essential items and services.

In the past, Spain has been criticised for not being strong enough in their condemnation of Israel’s actions. However, the Spanish government assured the Palestinian Foreign Minister that recognising Palestine as a state is a priority for them.

Albares also met with the Israeli foreign minister, but it’s important for Spain to show support for Palestine, given the ongoing conflict and human rights violations.

There are also plans for the installation of irrigation pipes, the improvement of the water supply, the search for new water sources, the reduction of water losses, and the digitalisation of water management. It also includes a package of direct and exceptional aid for farmers, ranchers and fishermen, amounting to €43 million.

Among these is direct aid of €10 million, plus €6 million for the expansion of the line of drinking troughs. Subsidies for the construction of rafts, watering holes and connectivity infrastructures will receive €5 million.