We are one of the countries with the best understanding of fisheries

The foreign minister of Spain, José Manuel Albares Bueno, met today with Iceland’s foreign minister, Thorgerdur Katrín Gunnarsdottir, at the Nordic House in Reykjavik. The meeting was held in light of growing bilateral relations between the two countries and took place as discussions about Iceland's potential future participation in the European Union continue to gain momentum. Albares emphasized that Iceland does not need to fear losing its sovereignty should it choose to join the EU, drawing parallels between Spain's experience before joining the bloc and Iceland's current position.

During their discussion, Albares highlighted how Spain's integration into the European Union forty years ago had significantly contributed to the country's development. He noted that access to European funds played a crucial role in building infrastructure such as highways, bridges, and public transport systems. According to him, Spain's journey within the EU demonstrates that membership can lead to substantial economic growth and stability. He also stressed that the EU does not impose conditions on member states but rather offers opportunities for cooperation and mutual benefit.

Thorgerdur Katrín explained that the current time is appropriate for reviving the debate over Iceland's relationship with Europe due to global uncertainties and the need to ensure the best interests of the Icelandic people. She expressed confidence that Iceland would achieve favorable terms if it decided to pursue EU membership. Both ministers agreed that the world has changed significantly since Spain joined the EU, and they believe that Iceland's strategic position could benefit from being part of the union.

A major point of discussion during the meeting was the issue of fisheries management, which has been a central topic in Iceland's ongoing dialogue with the EU. Albares acknowledged that Iceland has much to offer in this area, particularly in terms of expertise and knowledge related to marine resources. He suggested that Iceland could serve as a model for the EU in developing more effective fisheries governance frameworks. Thorgerdur Katrín supported this view, emphasizing that Iceland's approach to managing fish stocks is both innovative and highly regarded internationally.

The conversation also touched upon the broader implications of Iceland's potential EU membership, including the impact on national identity and sovereignty. While Albares did not comment directly on the specifics of Iceland's negotiations, he reiterated his belief that the EU provides a platform for countries to collaborate on issues of common interest while maintaining their independence. He encouraged Iceland to consider the long-term benefits of EU membership, especially given the increasing complexity of international affairs.

Both ministers expressed optimism about the future of their bilateral relations and the potential for continued collaboration on various fronts. They discussed the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic ties and working together on matters ranging from environmental protection to trade agreements. Their meeting underscored the significance of regional partnerships and the value of shared experiences among European nations.

As the debate over Iceland's future in Europe continues, the perspectives offered by Spanish officials provide valuable insights into the potential advantages of EU membership. With the global landscape evolving rapidly, decisions made by Iceland regarding its international affiliations will have far-reaching consequences. The upcoming referendum on the matter will play a pivotal role in shaping Iceland's path forward, influenced by the views of its citizens and the guidance of its political leaders.