Three Club de Madrid Members, former Presidents, Felipe González, José María Aznar and José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero also witnessed the ceremony.
Spanish transition from Franco’s dictatorship to a democratic constitutional monarchy can not be understood without the moderating role and political influence of Felipe VI’s father, King Juan Carlos I. After 39 years Spain is once again, facing stark times not only on the economic front but also in the political and social spheres. Felipe VI will face the challenge of steereing the country through unstable times with integrity, honesty and transparency. “A man is not worth more than another if he does not do more than him” stated in his first address as King of Spain. He clearly stated the attitude that will guide his endeavor: “You will find in me a loyal head of state ready to listen and understand, warn and advise as well as to defend the public interest at all times”.
Bridging differences and fostering moderation and agreement while helping the revitalization and reform of Spanish democratic institutions will be top priorities among the long list of challenges Felipe VI will be facing. Working to support a Democracy that delivers will be at the core of the new King’s mission and to achieve that “a renewed Monarchy for new times” in the new King’s own words, will be crucial.
The quality of his education and training and the fact that he is respected by a wide spectrum of both the political class and citizens, Felipe VI seems to be, as was his father Juan Carlos I in the seventies, the right man, at the right time, at the right place.
Foto Credit: The Guardian