Deputy Pedro Polo of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) has voiced strong criticism of the Aragón government's economic strategy, led by Jorge Azcón, which he claims relies excessively on data centres. Polo made these remarks following a presentation by the Minister of Economy, Competitiveness and Employment, Eva Valle, regarding the budget for her department.
Polo stated that Azcón's approach has rendered the Department of Economy the 'ugly duckling' of the regional government, asserting that it is overly dependent on a singular focus: data centres. He expressed concern that the government's strategy lacks a comprehensive plan and clear regulations, saying, 'The only bet for Aragón's growth is to rely entirely on data centres and arms.'
The PSOE deputy highlighted a drastic reduction in the budget for economic promotion, which has plummeted from €33 million to €9.5 million. He argued that the current government coalition of the People's Party (PP) and Vox is cutting funding in areas that are crucial for the region's economic fabric.
Polo pointed out that the Department of Economy, under Valle's leadership, has the lowest execution rate of any department in the Aragón government. 'Aragón needs its own policy that harnesses all its potential, beyond a singular focus on data centres,' he stated during a press conference.
He further remarked that Azcón inherited a diverse array of projects and a growing economy, describing the previous government's situation as having received an 'economic Ferrari' that was operating at full capacity, rather than relying on just one engine—the data centres. 'They have spent three years idling and doing nothing,' Polo added, emphasising the need for a more balanced economic strategy.
