Spanish PM calls for Catalan parliament to be formed on January 17
(VOVWORLD) - Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy on Friday called for a Catalan legislative council to be formed on January 17, the first step in reinstating local government that was taken over by Madrid after Catalonia illegally declared independence in October.
 Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy (Photo: AFP/VNA) |
Once the legislative council is formed, members have to choose a candidate to lead Catalonia who must undergo a vote of confidence. Earlier, Rajoy said he hopes a new era based on dialogue will begin in Catalonia.
The statement came one week after the December 21 regional election with parties favoring a split with Spain gained a slim majority. The results of the election have undermined the Spanish government’s efforts to form a stable administration in Catalonia in line with Spanish constitutions and international laws.