Spanish PM and Catalan leader in ‘cordial’ talks

Spain’s Prime Minister signalled a thaw in relations with Catalonia on Monday, signing up to joint initiatives in a first meeting with the region’s leader – but again ruling out any moves towards Catalan independence.

In an atmosphere his office described as cordial, Pedro Sánchez spoke with newly-elected Catalan independence leader Quim Torra for more than two hours.

Catalonia unilaterally declared independence in October.