The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation has launched a new framework to reinforce Spain’s international cooperation through the establishment of Alliances for Sustainable Development. This instrument is designed to enhance the effectiveness of Spain’s external action by concentrating efforts on strategic sectors and promoting inclusive and innovative public policies.
The model, rooted in the Law 1/2023 on Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity and implemented under the Master Plan 2024–2027, reflects a feminist, transformative and multilateral vision of cooperation. The Spanish Government aims to develop dynamic and flexible alliances with partner countries. As Minister José Manuel Albares stressed, these alliances constitute “a more effective system” to address global challenges in a shared and multidimensional way.
The first initiative under this approach was the signing of the Uruguay–Spain Sustainable Development Alliance 2025–2029, formalised on 22 July during the official visit of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to Montevideo. This agreement not only strengthens bilateral ties but also includes joint initiatives in areas such as combating organised crime and fostering cultural exchanges.
The Ministry is already working on new alliances with Egypt and Panama, which will build upon this innovative cooperation scheme focused on promoting equality, inclusion, social cohesion, decent employment and sustainable production. The design process has involved ministries, cooperation agencies, civil society, universities and the private sector, consolidating a collaborative and inclusive model that seeks to generate both global and regional public goods.
