Spain believes 'international cooperation is living through a moment of crisis'

The current international cooperation model is "showing signs of exhaustion" and is in a state of crisis, requiring a significant transformation, according to Antón Leis, director of the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (Aecid).

Leis advocates for a more horizontal and respectful approach to cooperation, emphasizing that partner countries should have greater autonomy and play a more central role in determining their own development priorities. He believes that cooperation should not be dictated by donor countries but should instead foster shared responsibility and address common challenges collaboratively.

Spain's cooperation model is described as "very horizontal" and based on active listening, though Leis acknowledges it is not immune to criticism, including accusations of maintaining a colonial perspective. He highlighted Spain's swift and substantial response to the earthquakes in Venezuela, where the country was the first to deploy rescue teams and a field hospital, mobilizing over 6 million euros in aid.

As Venezuela enters a phase of early recovery and reconstruction, Spanish cooperation will continue to support the Venezuelan people. Leis stressed the need for a strong and well-funded cooperation policy to effectively implement the societal will in Spain, noting the significant Venezuelan population residing in Spain and the Spanish community in Venezuela. He emphasized that financial support, channeled through state-level public policy, is more effective than simply sending medicine or food.

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