VOI World/ Desk
Spain has begun the process of replacing its ambassador to India, Juan Antonio March Pujol, following allegations of financial irregularities linked to the organisation of cultural events in India.
March, who was appointed ambassador in September 2024, is expected to be replaced within the next few weeks. The Spanish government has reportedly sent India a communication seeking an agrément, or formal approval, for Alfredo Martínez Serrano, currently Spain’s ambassador to Canada, to take over the post.
The move follows a report submitted to Spain’s Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office by a Spanish Foreign Ministry official in May. The report raised concerns about alleged financial misconduct involving the organisation and funding of cultural events.
According to Spanish media outlet The Objective, March was involved in plans for cultural programmes in Rajasthan marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Spain. The events reportedly included performances by an Indian dance company and Chinese and Spanish singers, but were allegedly organised without approval from officials in Madrid. Spain’s Agency for International Development Cooperation subsequently vetoed the proposed events.
The reports also raised questions over payments to Chinese singer Zhu Huiling. Zhu reportedly received €18,000 from the Spanish embassy in New Delhi in 2025 for concerts organised by March. For planned performances in 2026, the proposed cost was €14,000, with companies and the Rajasthan government expected to cover the expenses.
The Spanish embassy’s cultural attaché reportedly raised concerns after learning that plans were being made to secure funding for the events without informing the Foreign Ministry. The allegations include claims that sponsorships were to be paid directly to the organising group.
Spanish authorities are examining whether the reported conduct could have implications relating to public procurement and management of funds. March has reportedly already left India.
The ambassador’s replacement comes amid scrutiny in Spain over the embassy’s handling of cultural programmes and expenditure, but the allegations have not been established as wrongdoing in court.
