The government of Pedro Sanchez has earmarked €2.6 million for the rehabilitation of the Spanish hospital in Tangier, a facility currently managed in collaboration with Moroccan authorities. Originally commissioned in 1939 by Juan Luis Beigbeder, a Spanish military and political leader who held the positions of Chief of Indigenous Affairs and later High Commissioner in the Protectorate of Morocco from 1937 to 1939. The hospital's construction was completed in 1950. During a cabinet meeting held last Tuesday, the Spanish Foreign Ministry declared a state of emergency to expedite «necessary works, repairs, and services for structural intervention» at the hospital, with a budget of 2,689,588 euros, VAT included. The hospital's role has evolved over the years due to a declining Spanish population in the area, now serving as a retirement home and day health center for Spanish nationals. The government highlighted the building's «very poor state of maintenance» and its vulnerability to earthquakes, posing safety risks to its users. On November 18, 2024, the decision to declare a state of emergency was made to fast-track the «demolition of the south wing and incorporation of safety measures» at the hospital. This includes technical management as outlined by public contract laws, acknowledging the critical nature of the situation. The contract for the renovation was signed on December 9, 2024, with GTS Electronica SL, following a favorable report from the State Bar. The project is expected to be completed in 18 months, according to the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, headed by José Manuel Álvarez. In a gesture of ongoing cooperation between Spain and Morocco, charity concerts were held at the hospital as part of the International Choral Singing Festival. Spanish Ambassador to Morocco, Enrique Ojeda, visited the facility last March, shortly after his appointment. The Spanish Hospital in Tangier was designed by civil engineer José Ochoa in 1939, with planning completed by 1940 when Tangier was an international city. Following its integration into the Spanish protectorate, High Commissioner Carlos Asensio proceeded with the hospital's construction based on Ochoa's plans. Completed in 1950, the hospital quickly gained a reputation for excellence, even performing surgery on King Juan Carlos I in 1954. After Morocco gained independence, the hospital transitioned into a care home for the elderly in 1996, maintaining Spanish-Moroccan cooperation in its operations to this day.
