Catalonia to get a seat at UNESCO and World Tourism Organisation

Pedro Sánchez's government delivers on two promises made in the investiture pact with Junts

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, and the Minister for European Union and External Actions, Jaume Duch, shaking hands during the signing of the agreement on Catalonia's seat at UNESCO and at the World Tourism Organization.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, and the Minister for European Union and External Actions, Jaume Duch, shaking hands during the signing of the agreement on Catalonia's seat at UNESCO and at the World Tourism Organization. / Minister of Foreign Affairs
ACN

ACN | @agenciaacn | Barcelona

January 27, 2026 03:34 PM

Catalonia will have a seat at UNESCO and the World Tourism Organisation, after the Spanish and Catalan Foreign Affairs Ministers, José Manuel Albares and Jaume Duch respectively, reached an agreement on Monday. 

The agreement was signed in Madrid and includes two separate accords.

Two commitments from the investiture pact between the Spanish government and Catalan pro-independence party Junts are being fulfilled with the deal.

Duch said the agreements open the path for Catalonia to become a member associated with both organisations in the coming months.

He added that this is a very important step for Catalonia's international presence.

The agreements also aim to give Catalonia more influence in areas linked to the government's powers.

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