Reconcilliation between Zapatero and Rajoy at meeting in the Moncloa yesterday

Reconcilliation between Zapatero and Rajoy at meeting in the Moncloa yesterday
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By h.b. - Jul 24, 2008 - 8:28 AM

The Spanish Prime Minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero (right), with the leader of the Partido Popular, Mariano Rajoy (left) at the meeting in the Moncloa Palace in Madrid yesterday - Photo EFE

The Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition however failed to agree on how to face the economic crisis.

There was some reconciliation at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid yesterday at the meeting between the Prime Minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero and the leader of the Partido Popular opposition, Mariano Rajoy. It was the shortest meeting so far between the two, but also the most productive.

The two agreed a new consensus on the fight against terrorism, and agreed that the judiciary in the form of the Constitutional Court and the regulatory body, the General Council for Judicial Power, CGPJ, should be renovated in September.

The two kept their differences however on what economic measures should be taken in the face of the crisis in the economy. Zapatero insists that spending plans be maintained, especially in social projects, while Rajoy says cut backs in spending should be made.

After the meeting the Prime Minister said it was a meeting of agreements and fruit, while Rajoy considered that Zapatero ‘had learnt’ that there could be no negotiation with ETA. Both considered the agreement made now on terrorism was sufficient and that a new formal anti-terrorism pact was not needed, although it’s understood that the other political parties will be invited to participate.

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