The Spanish Socialist Workers Party, or PSOE, and the Catalan nationalist party Junts are set to announce a significant agreement this week concerning the transfer of migration competencies to Catalonia. This breakthrough comes just one week after Junts withdrew a confidence motion against Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, indicating a shift in the political landscape. Sources close to the negotiations have confirmed that the agreement is finalised, with specifics expected to be disclosed shortly.

Negotiations have been ongoing for several months, with the focus on the inclusion of migration responsibilities being essential for Junts. The main sticking point has been the control of borders, with Junts insisting on an all-encompassing transfer to allow regional police, the Mossos d’Esquadra, to manage border security. The Spanish Government has hesitated, citing constitutional boundaries.

Last week was particularly eventful, as the Sánchez administration also reached a deal with another Catalan party, ERC, regarding the cancellation of Catalonia’s debt. The timing of the upcoming proposal to transfer migration competencies coincides with the Mobile World Congress taking place in Barcelona, which Sánchez is currently attending.

The success of this agreement could hold vital implications for the approval of the Spanish Government’s General State Budget, with Junts’ support being crucial for its passage. However, the police union JUPOL has condemned the agreement, labelling it a serious breach of the rule of law. The full text of the agreement will be revealed in the coming days.