Andorra's Progressistes Party to Exit EU Association Pact Over Frustrations

Jaume Bartumeu, former head of government and leading figure in Progressistes-SDP, has expressed deep frustration over the handling of Andorra's association agreement with the European Union. "I'm very angry, we're very angry," he stated, voicing discontent shared by his party regarding the management of the deal within the framework of the State Pact.

Progressistes is set to withdraw from the pact, which brings together various political groups to oversee negotiations with Brussels. While Bartumeu stopped short of confirming the exit outright, he indicated that a decision has already been made. The party plans to formalise it at the next meeting of the monitoring body next week. Josep Roig, the party's formal president and its representative in the pact, is expected to announce the departure to other members on Wednesday and outline the reasons.

Bartumeu has long criticised the process, pointing to poor communication, lack of transparency, and inadequate defence of Andorra's interests. As an active observer in the talks, he has repeatedly targeted Landry Riba, the Secretary of State for EU Relations and head of Andorra's negotiating delegation.

A staunch advocate for deeper European integration, Bartumeu—known for his extensive Brussels contacts, including ties to San Marino politicians who negotiated a parallel deal—prefers a direct association path. He opposes the referendum pledged by Demòcrates, arguing it is unnecessary.