Valencian Language Featured in Congress: Puig Frames Language as a Bridge to National Reality
Ximo Puig, general secretary of PSPV-PSOE, emphasized that allowing the Valencian language into the Congress of Representatives would bring the chamber closer to Spain’s everyday life. He reminded Carlos Mazón, head of the Generalitat, that Valencian can be used in their interventions within the Valencian Courts, underscoring language as a practical tool for political dialogue rather than a symbolic gesture. This moment marks a notable shift in how regional languages are accommodated in national institutions, and Puig framed it as a move toward genuine representation that reflects the linguistic diversity of the country.
During a meeting of the PSPV-PSOE National Executive Committee, held yesterday under Puig’s chairmanship, the party approved an ambitious agenda for the coming weeks. The calendar begins with the opening ceremony for the new course on September 22, signaling a busy period of activity. Puig highlighted what he described as significant progress: the possibility of speaking Valencian in Congress for the first time, a step he framed as aligning national politics with regional reality. He criticized the People’s Party for resisting the change and urged them to use Valencian when appropriate instead of engaging in political posturing. Consell’s chairman, Carlos Mazón, countered Puig’s stance by challenging the inclusion of the term Catalan-Valencian as a descriptor in Congress and urged a public apology for what he portrayed as an overreach. The exchange underscored ongoing tensions over language policy within Spain’s political landscape and the broader debate over regional autonomy and recognition.
In comments about the national leadership, Puig spoke about the political priority of forming an executive body that could better reflect the current electoral reality. He argued for a plan that would bring a more coherent and grounded vision to national governance, one that takes into account the complexities of coalition dynamics and regional interests. In a morning radio interview, Puig suggested that doors should remain open for potential dialogue with Junts to reach any viable agreement that could steer the country through a delicate political phase. The emphasis was on pragmatic cooperation rather than rigid opposition, signaling a readiness to explore options that could stabilize governance while addressing the concerns of multiple regional players.
Turning to the Valencian Community, Puig reiterated the initial priorities that would guide each government’s actions. He drew attention to the ongoing efforts by the Botanical Government to finalize pharmaceutical contributions, extend universal healthcare, and ensure that medications reach patients with Hepatitis C. He argued that the stance of the PP, in his view, sided with the far right and served the interests of the wealthiest citizens, potentially widening the gap between those with resources and those without. The message was clear: policy choices in health and social welfare must focus on broad accessibility and equity rather than political advantage.
Concluding remarks from Puig stressed the commitment to maintaining oversight of the Consel and pursing an alternative pathway that could eventually lead to a stable government in the Community of Valencia. The overarching theme was a call for steady, principled leadership that would navigate the region through a period of transition while remaining accountable to the public and responsive to the real needs of Valencian residents. The conversation underscored a broader belief that regional language rights, healthcare reform, and responsible governance can coexist within a unified national framework, provided there is open dialogue and practical compromise across party lines.