Euzko Alderdi Jeltzalea-Le Parti Basque (EAJ-LPB) is the new name for the PNV in Iparralde, moving away from its former designation EAJ-PNB (Parti Nationaliste Basque). The change was announced by the party's national president, Aitor Esteban, who explained that removing the term 'nationalist' "evokes for many people French movements that have nothing to do" with the party.
Addressing the rise of far-right movements in France, Esteban emphasized the party's core values on both sides of the Bidasoa river. "We are democrats, we have always been clear that we are against violence, in favor of human rights, and with a European vocation," he stated at an event in Bidart. He was accompanied by Pantxoa Bimboire Haritschelhar (president of Ipar Buru Batzar), Peio Etxeleku (mayor of Kanbo and vice-president of the Mancomunidad de Iparralde), and Graxiana Mirande Bec (vice-president of the EAJ Territorial Assembly in Ipar Euskadi).
Le Parti Basque better represents the party's Basque nationalist and centrist values in Iparralde.
The PNV leader indicated that Le Parti Basque "better represents the party's Basque nationalist and centrist values in Ipar Euskal Herria." He added that the rebranding aims for "greater closeness to the society of Iparralde, a call, a bridge, while maintaining our soul and objectives as a party."
This rebranding comes amid significant party activity following strong results in the March municipal elections, where Etxeleku secured the mayorship in the symbolic town of Kanbo and became vice-president of the main institution representing Iparralde's municipalities. With Aitor Esteban's leadership at Sabin Etxea, Iparralde is gaining prominence, and the party seeks to enhance its appeal and political influence.
Many people feel Basque in Iparralde. We are prepared to continue moving forward.
The PNV is reinforcing its Basque, democratic, and European project. Esteban stressed that his party has "much to offer" Iparralde for its future and well-being, predicting a "new Europe" in 10 to 15 years where the concept of nation-states will change significantly. He believes Euskadi must find its place in this new Europe, working towards "a more united, freer, more European Euskadi, and a pioneer of human rights."
