The Spanish European Foreign Policy: Spain´s Game in Europe

Abstract

Spain has traditionally been an active member of the European Union with a deep-European character. But the interests of Spain are increasingly alienated from the mainstream. Spanish foreign policy course set no specific targets and is evident the lack of strategic thinking on what is to be achieved in Europe and how they want to do. The lack of initiative and loss of political weight of Spain in Europe and the world, after the effects of the economic crisis and government indecision about it, has adversely affected the international image of Spain as a middle power limiting their ability to influence on the international environment. Spain has still time to redirect its foreign policy toward Europe if appropriate measures are taken We face the question of the effectiveness of this deep Europeanism at the time of achieving the objectives and national interests. The Lisbon Treaty with the concept of "third role" it may be seen as an avenue to give to Spain the ability to influence European and world affairs, thanks to the Spain-Latin America relationship.