The Valencian agenda is a recurring signifier in political discourse. Its exact contents remain hidden to passersby on the streets of Alcalá and Madrid’s Plaza San Juan de la Cruz, yet in the offices of the Ministries of Finance and Ecological Transition the terms financing, corridor, water, debt, and port, with Valencia connections, are familiar—and should be to those in charge.
Even with the veil of secrecy, it is clear that two names will persist in the new Government: María Jesús Montero and Teresa Ribera, leading the Treasury and Ecological Transition, listening to what Valencia demands and preparing for decisions that affect the Valencian Community. If reform of the regional financing model, the Tajo-Segura transfer, or the expansion of Valencia’s port remains unresolved after five years, these two will be central figures in the discussions.
During this period, the main responsibility has rested with Montero and Ribera, though their approaches diverge in notable ways. Tense moments arose with the Minister of Ecological Transition, especially over ecological flows for the Tagus and the halt on transfers to Segura. Even desalination aid could not fully ease tensions. The minister’s continuity would imply backing this course, and a Valencian Government now led by the PP would likely turn the issue into a political confrontation.
Another agenda item pressing Ribera’s office is the expansion of the Port of Valencia. The socialists showed openness in contrast to Compromís and Sumar, who opposed. The department issued a report stating that the conditions are suitable for study. This topic, along with coastal restrictions in Valencia, will demand decisive handling under Ribera’s leadership this term.
Relationship with ups and downs
In theory, Montero enjoys greater alignment with Valencia due to her background with the Junta de Andalucía, a regional government sharing similar financing challenges. In practice, the relationship between the Generalitat and the ministry led by a Sevillian is more like friends with benefits: the system remains intact, yet transfers rise and extra resources were supplied in response to the health crisis.
A draft of a new distribution model also surfaced, leaving Valencia unimpressed. With no obvious changes on the horizon, the PSOE deputy general secretary is tasked with shaping the new distribution framework and crafting a debt forgiveness plan for the autonomies. A discount is on the table for Catalonia due to ERC, and expectations point to extending similar considerations to other autonomies.
Valencia’s agenda includes infrastructures such as the Mediterranean corridor and Cercanías. These projects sit under the Ministry of Transport, led by Raquel Sánchez, but their fate within the Administration remains uncertain. Her commitment to supporting Spain’s peripheral regions is notable, particularly for advancing the Mediterranean railway even as deficits persist.
Tribes continue
Who will oversee the Ministry of Land Policy will carry weight for regional autonomy. It is a portfolio that excites Valencian leaders like Ximo Puig, who has pressed for greater decentralization. His name remains in the mix, with many eyes in the Valencian socialist federation awaiting developments from Moncloa.
The pace of government formation has slowed. No official announcements have come from the Presidential Office, and speculation continues without leaks. Puig, the possible continuation of Diana Morant, the return of Gabriela Bravo or Arcadi España, a possible comeback by José Luis Ábalos, or even a surprising move such as the return of Gandia’s former mayor are among the scenarios being weighed.
Montero will lead the design of any future financing model and oversee debt forgiveness for autonomies.
Her ongoing role is seen as a guarantee that transfer differences will persist. The expansion of the Port of Valencia and its environmental impact will likely land on her desk as decisions unfold.