The president of the Valencian Community, Ximo Puig, spoke from the capital in response to remarks made by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the head of the Madrid Community. Puig framed his commitment to a robust welfare state against Ayuso’s vision that would imply its removal, stressing that Valencia operates under a political model that differs from Madrid.
When questioned about Ayuso’s response to Puig’s proposal inviting Valencia to join a joint initiative, Puig answered that Valencia does not come to lecture others and prefers to learn through collaboration. He underscored the mutual opportunities between the Valencian Community and Madrid, and confirmed that Valencia was open to dialogue rather than confrontation.
These exchanges followed Madrid’s recent trip to Valencia, where Ayuso defended a tax reform package aimed at reducing indebtedness within the Botànic coalition’s influence in the Valencian Community. The Madrid leadership framed the visit as a byproduct of a broader effort to demonstrate an alternative fiscal path, following an invitation extended by local business groups.
Ayuso defends its financial reform against Botànic indebtedness in the Valencian Community
Regional leaders gathered in the Senate as Puig noted a lack of record showing any direct response to Ayuso’s invitation, while reiterating that the Valencian Community and Madrid share many common interests and challenges. Puig asserted that the two communities are large, both sizable in influence and population, and that cooperation remains essential for progress across the region.
Despite ongoing political friction, Valencia maintains a commitment to constructive dialogue. Ayuso’s team, by contrast, has tended toward a more self-contained stance throughout the debate. The central question remains the future of welfare state policies and how they align with each community’s long-term plans.
Beyond the immediate political disagreements, the discussion highlights a belief that each community should consider not only its own needs but also the broader federal vision for national governance. The Valencian leadership has a clear agenda this month, focusing on strengthening ties with Madrid while examining how the central government interacts with regional administrations.
In this context, Puig emphasized that the majority group in the Senate from Valencia is substantial in size, and he intends to harness that representation to push for reforms. The focus areas include a more autonomous fiscal model, improved water management, and employment strategies that support sustainable growth across both communities.