The Socialist party, led by Salvador Illa, won a historic victory in the Catalonia regional election with 42 seats but did not achieve an absolute majority.

The separatist movement in Catalonia has lost its parliamentary majority, leading to a period of negotiations for government formation.

Regional president Pere Aragonés will step back from politics, declining to take office as a deputy.

Former president Carles Puigdemont is optimistic about gaining enough support to be invested in the regional parliament.

The election results signify political support for Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's more conciliatory stance towards the Catalan independence issue.

Current public support for Catalan independence stands at 42%, with a majority opposing it.

Post-election, the political landscape in Catalonia is expected to feature behind-the-scenes negotiations and discreet deals until after the European elections on June 9.

Newly elected Catalan lawmakers are set to take their seats on June 10 following the European elections.