However, a strong showing for the local branch of Spain's ruling Socialists suggests there will be dialogue rather than a break up with Madrid, the results unlikely to lead to a repeat of the chaotic, short lived declaration of independence from Spain that took place in twenty seventeen and triggered the country's deepest political crisis for decades.

For close to a decade, regional elections have been dominated by the push for independence, but on Sunday, healthcare and the economy were at the forefront of voters minds.

Separatists won fifty point nine percent of the vote, surpassing the fifty percent threshold for the first time.

The leftist A.

R C said it would lead the regional government and seek the support of other parties for a referendum on independence.

It's led by acting regional chief Perry Arun's sit and talk.

I would like to send a message to European authorities.

The results are clear.

We the pro independence parties, have a majority.

We have reached more than fifty percent off the popular vote.

The Catalan people have spoken.

The time has come to negotiate a referendum off self determination.

Please get involved.

The Socialists won the highest percentage, and the same number of seats is the separatists, meaning they will also try to form a government.

But that would require an unlikely alliance, however, with other parties see.