Statement by President of the Government following visit to funeral chapel for former Speaker of the Lower House of Parliament, Manuel Marín

Madrid

Manuel Marín was one of the most important politicians Spain has seen in the 40 years in which we have enjoyed a democratic system. I would like to point out just two or three things.

Firstly, he was a great pro-European and it is in Europe, fortunately, where both our present and our future lie. Manuel Marín took part in the negotiations - there is a photo at Moncloa Palace, which some of you will probably have seen, at the signing of Spain's accession to the European Union, together with Portugal, taken at the Royal Palace back in 1986. That took place a few months earlier and Manuel Marín was there; he was one of the men who, through his efforts and hard work, his commitment and enthusiasm, ensured that Spain finally joined the EU.

He has held many responsibilities; he was a commissioner in Brussels for a long time and he was then the Speaker of the Lower House of Parliament between the years 2004 and 2008.

Not long ago, I had the opportunity to be in Salamanca, because two new honorary doctorates were awarded at a far from insignificant university, which can now boast 800 years of history; one of the oldest and most important universities in Europe: one of the recipients was Jean-Claude Juncker and the other was Manuel Marín, who was unable to attend; although we heard a very nice speech outlining his achievements. I was there with his daughters, who I have just seen again now, and I have also just seen his wife. She wasn't there in Salamanca on 9 November because she was with her husband.

A great person has left us, a great politician and someone who was capable of defending the interests of his country and of placing them above any other consideration. And since, although there are those would prefer us not to believe that, politicians are also human beings, I have to say that I feel sad today, but at the same time I see someone who has left behind a fine example for the future.

Thank you.

Non official translation