The former leader emphasized Spain's capacity to handle health crises and called for institutional responsibility. He criticized those who, in his view, seek to turn the situation into a political weapon, stressing that the country does not deny its international responsibilities and legal obligations.
“"Patriots, help the Government, it will do very well."
He also noted that there are Spanish citizens on board the cruise ship and insisted that the vessel's reception aligns with international commitments and established health protocols. He defended the multilateral system of international cooperation, pointing out that international regulations prevent denying entry to a vessel for health reasons if the receiving country has response capacity.
During his speech, the former president strongly criticized an opposition party for attempting to link the case to immigration, calling this attitude serious. He defended his party's historical role in expanding rights and positioned the migratory issue as a moral cornerstone of the current political debate, advocating for dignified treatment of immigrants.
He also denounced what he considers a double standard in certain political sectors, which despise people who come to work and then claim to uphold Christian values. He dismissed the concept of "national priority" as a "hoax" and warned against rhetoric that fosters rejection of foreigners, advocating for a Spain proud to treat all its citizens with dignity.
Finally, he insisted that public service problems are not due to the arrival of immigrants but to a lack of resources. He framed the May 17 Andalusian regional elections within a broader debate about the societal model, warning of a potential setback in rights and progressive thought.




