Sánchez highlights Spain's stability in the face of political and economic challenges of 2023.

Pedro Sánchez appeared before the media this Monday, following the last Council of Ministers meeting of the year, to assess the state of the legislature and the difficulties the Government has faced over the past twelve months. In a European context marked by economic uncertainty and political instability, the Spanish Prime Minister wanted to highlight the stability that, according to him, characterizes Spain, emphasizing that a total of 25 laws have been approved despite the existing differences among his coalition partners. During his speech, Sánchez emphasized that the fulfillment of his legislative agenda is a testament to his government's ability to reach agreements. However, he did not shy away from mentioning the complications he has had to face, particularly regarding the approval of fiscal measures. Despite the fact that the fiscal package was widely supported by the Cortes, the president acknowledged a significant setback in being unable to maintain the tax on energy companies, a measure he had attempted to extend with the support of several of his allies. The situation became complicated when some of his partners, such as the PNV and Junts, aligned themselves with the opposition parties, PP and Vox, resulting in the rejection of the extension proposal. In light of this scenario, the Government has decided to approve a royal decree law to extend the tax on energy companies, although aware that it lacks the necessary support in Congress for this measure to succeed. The complexity of the situation is reflected in the negotiation of the new general budget for 2025, in which the Government will have to deal with various demands from its coalition partners. In particular, the Junts party, led by Carles Puigdemont, has presented a non-legislative proposal calling for Sánchez to raise a vote of confidence. This situation has generated uncertainty, and the decision of the Congress Bureau regarding its processing has been postponed, leading Puigdemont to warn that a blockade could lead to the collapse of the legislature. Despite these challenges, the Spanish president expressed optimism in his assessment of the national economy. He asserted that while other European countries face crises and political tensions, Spain has managed to maintain a stability that has been internationally recognized. This assertion is based on the economic reforms implemented and the international support he has garnered for his management. On the other hand, the situation within the Government is also marked by pressures from Podemos, which has demanded the extension of the tax on energy companies and has secured a commitment to approve a royal decree that extends social shield measures for one year. This agreement includes the suspension of evictions for vulnerable groups and the extension of transport aid, highlighting the give-and-take between coalition partners. The future appears uncertain, especially with the proximity of elections that may further complicate relations among the various political actors. The possibility that budget negotiations could become entangled in a web of interests and demands is a scenario that cannot be ruled out. In this context, Sánchez's appearance served as a call for unity and stability, appealing for the need to continue working together to face the upcoming challenges. However, the lack of cohesion among his allies suggests that the path to the next year may be fraught with obstacles. Thus, Sánchez's assessment reveals a complex political landscape, where the struggle to maintain control and advance the Government's agenda intertwines with the demands and expectations of his allies. The lingering question is how far this coalition can go and whether it will be able to maintain its stability in an ever-changing landscape.