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Saudi Arabia and Spain want to boost relations to a ‘strategic partnership,’ says Spanish FM Jose Manuel Albares
DUBAI: Spain’s prime diplomat has expressed his need to develop the nation’s already-strong ties with Saudi Arabia right into a strategic partnership, eyeing developments in renewable energies.
Jose Manuel Albares, minister of international affairs, European Union, and cooperation, stated Spain’s collaborations with the Saudi authorities had already proven that the 2 work “very effectively” collectively.
“(Now) we’ve got to boost the extent of our present partnership right into a strategic partnership,” Albares informed Katie Jensen, host of the Arab Information’ current-affairs present “Frankly Talking.” The total interview will likely be revealed and broadcast on Sunday.
“We noticed there are nonetheless loads of alternatives to work collectively, and there are fields that transcend the financial system, for example, trade in schooling, establishments that may come (to Saudi Arabia), trade of scholars, tradition, language, there are numerous points, and plenty of fields.”
Albares added: “After I suppose that once you see the cooperation of enterprises of Spain, equivalent to Navantia or Airbus, it’s a European consortium, however with a really robust Spanish curiosity in it, they’ve been of mutual profit for each.
“So, I feel we should proceed on these points. There is no such thing as a moot level between us.”
Of specific curiosity for Albares is strengthening ties in renewable power growth, with Albares noting the depth of information Spain has within the area.
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He stated that whereas there’s “nonetheless loads of room to enhance what’s already a superb relationship,” he has held constructive discussions referring to inexperienced hydrogen, in addition to solar- and wind-power growth.
Requested of the challenges dealing with any “strategic partnership,” Albares stated the “frequent previous and customary historical past” shared by Spain and the Arab Gulf states had set them in good stead.
“We’re a Mediterranean nation. We share that with many Arab international locations. There’s a practice of diplomacy between Spain and the totally different Arab international locations. And there’s this frequent previous and customary historical past. So sure, I feel it’s time to resume,” he stated.
“The Arab world is altering significantly. There are incredible issues occurring within the Arab world and Spain desires to be a part of that transformation. I met and talked to many ladies of the Saudi society, of the civil society. And I noticed the thriving adjustments which are happening in Saudi Arabia. And we need to be a part of that (transformation).”
Talking throughout his diplomatic tour throughout the Gulf, visiting counterparts in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, Albares stated discussions had inevitably been drawn to the battle in Gaza and the necessity for collaboration.
“(We mentioned) how we are able to work collectively for a everlasting ceasefire, launch of hostages, and the doorway of humanitarian help for the Palestinian state,” he stated.
The total episode of Frankly Talking will likely be launched on Sunday.
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