SPAIN AND ITS RELATIONS WITH THE UNITED STATES: IN BRIEF *

ABSTRACT

The United States and Spain have extensive cultural ties and a mutually beneficial economic relationship, and the two countries cooperate closely on numerous diplomatic and security issues. Spain has been a member of NATO since 1982 and a member of the European Union (EU) since 1986. Given its role as a close U.S. ally and partner, Spain's internal situation and relations with the United States are of continuing interest to the U.S. Congress.