A unilateral declaration of Catalan independence would be irresponsible. For our shared European experience has taught us that Europe’s strength lies in its unity and the peace which European integration has brought. The demonstrations of the last few days have shown that Catalonia’s population is divided on the question of independence.

The truth is that a solution can only be found through a dialogue based on the rule of law and within the limits of the Spanish constitution. Ultimately, a solution will only be durable if it has the support of the majority of Spaniards and Catalans.