In a significant development that underscores the intertwining of international relations and personal ties, Sanchez has returned to Mauritania following the United Nations’ recent hiring of his sister-in-law. This move comes on the heels of generous financial support from Spain aimed at bolstering development efforts in the region. As Sanchez navigates this new chapter, the implications of familial connections and diplomatic generosity highlight the complex dynamics at play in both local governance and international cooperation. This return not only marks a personal journey but also reflects Spain’s ongoing commitment to fostering stability and progress in Mauritania.
Pedro Sánchez’s recent trip to Mauritania on August 27 marks his second visit to the African nation within just six months. This journey follows Spain’s leadership in a United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) program for Mauritania, for which his sister-in-law, Kaori Matsumoto, has been appointed. The tour, taking place from August 27 to 29 and encompassing Gambia and Senegal, comes as Sánchez returns from his holiday in Lanzarote. While specific details of the trip remain undisclosed, it occurs amid an ongoing migration crisis, with Moncloa expected to provide further updates next week.
On July 18, 2023, during the last Council of Ministers meeting prior to the general elections, the Spanish government approved official aid amounting to €454,873 for the UNOCT program, which is managed from Madrid. Additionally, a general contribution of €50,000 was allocated. The program’s establishment and funding have been facilitated by “the generous financial support of the Kingdom of Spain,” as acknowledged by the UN.
In November 2023, the UN announced a vacancy for a Programme Management Officer (P-3), a position that Matsumoto has successfully secured after months of advocacy by José Manuel Albares, Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. The UN had requested a visa for Matsumoto and her daughter, born on April 19, 2022, from Spanish authorities on June 7.
Matsumoto is married to David Sánchez under a separation of property regime governed by Austrian law. Sánchez has been pursuing tax residency in Portugal since 2021, a status that has not been challenged by the Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT). Notably, the AEAT’s report indicates that Pedro Sánchez’s brother has maintained three different tax domiciles across three countries within a three-year span. During a leave of absence from October 2020 to September 2021, he resided in Thailand, where Matsumoto was employed.
Albares inaugurated the UN office in Madrid on June 6, 2023, alongside Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and UN Deputy Secretary-General Vladimir Voronkov. This position was created at the Spanish government’s request, initially precluding Matsumoto from leading the project due to her absence from the Madrid office. Ultimately, the role was tendered and awarded to her between February and March 2024, solidifying her connection to this significant initiative.
Diplomatic immunity
Article X of the agreement between Spain and the United Nations specifies that both the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) in Madrid and its staff “enjoy the privileges and immunities provided for in Article VII of the Headquarters Agreement.” Additionally, it states that “pursuant to Article XII of the Headquarters Agreement, the head of the programme office and the officials of the UNOCT assigned to the office shall, while in Spain, enjoy, in relation to themselves, their spouses, and their dependents, the privileges and immunities, exemptions, and facilities typically granted to diplomatic representatives.”
In light of these provisions, the Popular Party (PP) has raised concerns and submitted a series of questions to the government in Congress regarding the implications of this arrangement.
During a Foreign Affairs Committee meeting on August 13 in the Senate, Minister José Manuel Albares refrained from addressing inquiries about his involvement in this matter. Still, they expressed pride in the establishment of the UNOCT office in Madrid. “Since its inception, we have been the largest donor, and I will continue to ensure this as long as I serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs,” he stated, emphasizing that once the voluntary contribution is made, the governance and management of the office are determined by the United Nations.
Albares further clarified that all positions within UN offices in Spain are subject to the rules and procedures established by the United Nations, which are known for being competitive, selective, and rigorous. “These decisions are made by the UN’s Human Resources department, not by the Government of Spain,” he asserted, highlighting that selections are conducted through a comprehensive process involving a panel of evaluators from the UN in New York for publicly advertised positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Pedro Sánchez revisit Mauritania?
Pedro Sánchez’s visit on August 27 is his second to Mauritania in six months. The trip aims to reinforce Spain’s diplomatic ties and support development initiatives in the region.
What is the significance of the UN hiring Kaori Matsumoto?
Kaori Matsumoto, Sánchez’s sister-in-law, was appointed to a position within the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) following Spain’s generous financial support for the program in Mauritania, highlighting the intertwining of personal and political connections.
What financial support has Spain provided to the UNOCT program?
On July 18, 2023, the Spanish government approved €454,873 in official aid for the UNOCT program and an additional €50,000 as a general contribution.
How does this visit relate to the migration crisis?
Sánchez’s trip occurs amid ongoing migration challenges in the region, underscoring Spain’s commitment to addressing these issues through diplomatic engagement and development support.
What other countries will Sánchez visit during this trip?
In addition to Mauritania, Sánchez will also visit Gambia and Senegal from August 27 to 29.
What has the reaction been from the opposition parties?
The Popular Party (PP) has raised concerns about the implications of the UN hiring Matsumoto and submitted questions to the government regarding this arrangement and its potential conflicts of interest.
What are the privileges associated with the UN positions in Spain?
UN staff in Madrid enjoy certain privileges and immunities, as outlined in the agreement between Spain and the UN, which include benefits typically granted to diplomatic representatives.
How are UN positions filled in Spain?
All positions within UN offices in Spain follow competitive and rigorous selection processes managed by the UN’s Human Resources department, independent of the Spanish government.
Conclusion
Pedro Sánchez’s return to Mauritania underscores the complex interplay between international diplomacy and personal connections, particularly with the recent hiring of his sister-in-law, Kaori Matsumoto, by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism. This visit, fueled by Spain’s significant financial contributions to UNOCT, not only reinforces Spain’s commitment to supporting development and stability in the region but also highlights the potential challenges and scrutiny that arise when personal relationships intersect with governmental roles. As Sánchez navigates these dynamics amid an ongoing migration crisis, the outcomes of this trip could shape Spain’s diplomatic efforts in Africa and influence future initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration and security.
