Andalusian President Juan Manuel Moreno of the People’s Party has once again shown his own stance on immigration, diverging from the official party line. Amid renewed controversy between the PSOE and the PP over the massive influx of immigrants to the Canary Islands, Moreno used his Christmas speech to address the “drama” of the situation and urged against turning a blind eye. He emphasized the importance of not being indifferent to the issue and highlighted Andalusia’s efforts in assisting these individuals. Moreno chose the port of Algeciras, a key hub for trade in Spain and Europe, as the backdrop for his year-end message, symbolizing the union of two worlds.
This is not the first time that the Andalusian president has taken a different stance from his party’s leaders. In July, Moreno defended regulated immigration in response to criticism from the far-right Vox party in the Andalusian Parliament, and also pushed back against the leader of the PP, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, who equated immigration with crime. Moreno firmly stated that he would not participate in targeting immigrants. Once again, he called on the central government for a stronger commitment on the issue, urging for a national migration policy and highlighting Andalusia’s role as the southern border of Europe.
Moreno also expressed his support for the Spanish government in negotiations regarding Gibraltar post-Brexit, emphasizing the importance of a beneficial agreement for the Campo de Gibraltar region. He underlined Andalusia’s backing for the government in these crucial negotiations that impact the future of the area. By selecting the Campo de Gibraltar for his address, Moreno sought to showcase the economic progress of Andalusia, particularly citing the success of the Algeciras port as an example of the region’s growth and leadership. He highlighted positive employment figures but acknowledged the need for continued improvement in the economy.
In his New Year’s message, Moreno reiterated his commitment to practicing politics as a noble public service, distancing himself from constant conflict and confrontation. He emphasized the Andalusian approach of calmness and political moderation as a way forward. Moreno pledged to uphold dialogue and collaboration with various stakeholders, including unions, businesses, associations, political parties, municipalities, other autonomous communities, regardless of their governing party, and the Spanish government. He emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and discourse based on truth.
In contrast to his fellow party member Isabel Díaz Ayuso in Madrid, Moreno advocated for unity, agreement, and extending a hand as the best path for progress in Andalusia and in life. He called for pride in the region and hoped that the spirit of Christmas could inspire politics throughout the year. Moreno also acknowledged that public services in healthcare, education, and dependency could be improved and compared his government’s current investments to those of the previous socialist administration to highlight advancements made under his leadership.
