Senate repeals Friendship Treaty with France during Macron's visit

The Senate of Spain has decided to repeal the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation with France, which had been agreed upon by Presidents Pedro Sánchez and Emmanuel Macron in January 2023. The measure was adopted with the absolute majority of the Popular Party (PP) in the Upper House, which opposed the text with 142 votes against it, according to 20minutos.

This rejection of the treaty occurred on the same day that Macron was visiting Spain, being received by the Royals at a gala dinner, adding significant context to the vote. Despite the Constitutional Court's support for certain articles of the treaty in a recent ruling, the PP chose not to back the agreement, prompting reactions.

Some members of the Spanish government, such as Minister José Manuel Albares, have criticized the PP's stance, highlighting that there is a lack of state sense.

weak in this context. It has also been noted that Congress and the Senate will now need to address the discrepancies arising from the treaty through a Joint Commission to seek a solution.

Despite the repeal, Sánchez and Macron reaffirmed their commitment to the treaty in a meeting following the vote. During this meeting, Sánchez apologized for the Senate's outcome and expressed his intention for the treaty to be approved in this legislative term. Both parties emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship.

Finally, the Senate's rejection of the Friendship Treaty has opened a space for future negotiations, although it has generated criticism concerning the political strategy of the PP and Vox in this area. Discussions will continue as ways to advance the relationship between Spain and France are sought.