Jordi Pujol calls for integration and cohesion in Catalonia

The former President of the Generalitat, honored in Planoles, advocates for welcoming newcomers without renouncing Catalan identity.

Generic image of two hands shaking over a desk with documents.
IA

Generic image of two hands shaking over a desk with documents.

The former President of the Generalitat, Jordi Pujol, has called for integration and social cohesion in Catalonia during a tribute event in Planoles (Ripollès), organized by the Joventut Nacional de Catalunya.

The event, which gathered around 400 people linked to Junts and the former Convergència party, reviewed Pujol's career, from his youth and the founding of Convergència to his time in government. Leaders such as Josep Rull, Jordi Turull, Mònica Sales, Joaquim Forn, and former minister Irene Rigau attended the gathering.
Although not speaking directly, Pujol, accompanied by his son Oriol, prepared a speech that was read by Carlota Monfort, the organization's president. At 96 years old, the former president reflected on his life dedicated to Catalonia, aiming to contribute to its national, cultural, economic, and institutional reconstruction.

"Do not confuse firmness with sectarianism, nor identity with exclusion. Do not confuse modernity with uprooting."

Jordi Pujol · Former President of the Generalitat
In his written statement, Pujol argued that a country's strength lies in a committed society with a culture of effort, responsibility, and self-confidence. He emphasized the importance of preserving the language, generating prosperity, fostering social cohesion, and integrating newcomers without abandoning one's own identity. He also urged young people not to fall into pessimism and to take on responsibilities with a service vocation, stating that Catalonia has always been worthwhile.
The event concluded with a speech by the president of the JNC, Àlex Agustí, who thanked Pujol for his dedication, apologized for not always living up to expectations, and expressed the commitment of new generations to continue the political legacy. A plaque was presented to Pujol with the phrase 'My life's purpose has been to build Catalonia,' before a fraternal meal in the municipality of Ripollès.