“The contribution of immigrants to economic growth and fiscal sustainability has been very clear and significant”, declared the official, at an event with the president of the World Bank, Ajay Banga.

The minister said that, when talking about the issue of immigration, we must “escape the gap that exists between reality and perception that spreads through social media and misinformation”.

“The contribution of immigration to Spain is substantial”, he reiterated.

Cuerpo made the statements after announcing a contribution of 400 million euros to the International Development Association, a World Bank entity that provides assistance to developing countries, which represents a 40% increase compared to Spain's last contribution.

The minister explained that the country is promoting local development in West Africa to generate jobs and reduce the factors that expel young people from these countries.

But he also defended that there are “regular and stable channels” for immigrants who want to work in Spain.