Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced on Wednesday that Spain will introduce a new strategy for its relations with Africa in the coming weeks, with West Africa and the Sahel as priority regions. Further details were not provided.
Sánchez, who began his three-day West Africa tour in Mauritania, where he announced an expansion of Spain’s circular migration program and increased cooperation against human trafficking, is now in Senegal. This marks the first visit by a Spanish prime minister to the small country of 2.7 million inhabitants.
On Wednesday, Sánchez visited Gambia and is scheduled to meet with Senegal’s president and prime minister on Thursday.
These three coastal nations have become major departure points for migrants heading to the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago near the African coast used by migrants and refugees en route to Europe.
Spain’s Interior Ministry reports that over 22,000 people have arrived on the Canaries since January, more than double the number from the same period last year.
Sánchez emphasized during a conference in Senegal that while he strongly supports regular migration for its economic and cultural benefits, ensuring security remains a top priority.
He acknowledged the complexities of the current migration context and reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with African countries.
The Canary Islands have seen an increase in arrivals, including many Malian refugees escaping violence, as well as young people from Senegal, Mauritania, and other West African nations seeking better opportunities. There is also a growing number of unaccompanied minors, which has strained local resources.