December 11, 2025

Japanese Communist Party Executive Committee Chair Tamura Tomoko on December 9 received a visit from Spanish Ambassador to Japan Inigo de Palacio Espana at the House of Representatives Members’ Office Building.

Tamura expressed her respect for Spain’s stance in advocating for peace in the Middle East, noting that Spain recognized the State of Palestine in May 2024.

The ambassador spoke about Spain’s historical relationship with the Arab world, explaining the country’s strong commitment to peace in the region.

Tamura then brought up the issue of Spain’s rejection of NATO’s new target for member countries to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.

The ambassador explained that Spain sent NATO a letter stating that it cannot meet the target because an increase in defense spending would need cutbacks in social security expenditure, which conflicts with the Spanish public’s demand for expanding social security services.

In the meeting, they also talked about Spain’s immigration policy. The ambassador said that the country’s tolerant immigration policies are contributing to its economic growth.

Tamura explained the JCP stance on rising racism and xenophobia in Japan as well as on Prime Minister Takaichi’s remarks regarding Japan’s role in a “Taiwan contingency”.

They agreed to continue exchanging views in the future when opportunities arise.