19 June 2024 marks the tenth anniversary of the proclamation of Felipe VI as King of Spain, a decade marked by significant challenges and achievements at both the national and international levels. Throughout these ten years, King Felipe VI has maintained a diplomatic and humanitarian approach in his relations with the Middle East and Gulf countries, reflecting the values of peace, justice and solidarity that define the Spanish Royal Household.
Since the reign of Juan Carlos I, the Spanish Royal Household has maintained historical ties with the Gulf monarchies, one of the areas of Spanish foreign policy that shows the greatest continuity and coherence over time. These relations of trust have been strengthened with the presence of King Felipe VI, which has consolidated Spain's participation and image in the region.
In the particular case of relations between Spain and the Sultanate of Oman, the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1972, marking the beginning of a close collaboration: in 2004, Spain opened its Embassy in Muscat; in 2006, Oman appointed its first ambassador to Spain; and in 2008, the Economic and Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy in Oman was opened.
On this tenth anniversary, it is pertinent to remember and appreciate the contributions of the Royal Household to stability and well-being in the Middle East. As the region continues to
face challenges, the role of committed international actors such as the Spanish Royal Household will be crucial in promoting peace and cooperation in the future, as well as addressing the most pressing global challenges.
In this sense, the conflict in Gaza has been a constant concern on the international agenda, and the Spanish Royal Family has not been oblivious to this tragic situation. Since the
beginning of his reign, Felipe VI has advocated a peaceful and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. On several occasions, the monarch has urged the international community to redouble diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement that guarantees the security and well-being of both parties.
Thus, on several occasions, King Felipe VI has stressed the need to respect international law and international humanitarian law in the Gaza conflict. Moreover, at the beginning of 2024, during the closing speech of the Spanish Ambassadors' Conference, he stressed the importance of the two-state solution; with mutual security guarantees, full independence and recognised borders as the only viable path to peace. This position reflects a continuity with Spanish foreign policy, which has traditionally supported a just and negotiated solution to the conflict.
Beyond its diplomatic role, the Spanish Royal Family has demonstrated a firm commitment to humanitarian cooperation in the Middle East. In particular, Queen Letizia has played a
prominent role in this area. As the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Special Ambassador for Nutrition, the Queen has promoted various initiatives aimed at
improving food security in the region, which has been affected by protracted conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Since 2015, Spain has allocated funds and resources through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, in collaboration with international organizations, to
provide basic assistance, education and medical care to thousands of refugees in Jordan and Lebanon, among other countries.
Is also worth mentioning, the Spanish people solidarity with those affected by conflicts in the region, have repeatedly been a highlight during the official visits made by King and Queen of Spain to the Middle East. This demonstrates the importance Spain attaches to humanitarian aid, as it consistently has been a generous provider.
In short, the 10th anniversary of Felipe VI's reign represents not only a decade of leadership in Spain but also a continued commitment to diplomacy and international cooperation. The
Spanish Royal Household, through its actions and positions, has demonstrated a firm will to contribute to peace, stability and humanitarian aid in the Middle East. The active presence of
Felipe VI and Queen Letizia in the region, together with the solid tradition of relations with the Gulf monarchies, have reinforced Spain's role as a relevant and supportive actor on the global stage.
In these ten years, the Spanish Royal Household, under the reign of Felipe VI, has promoted the values of peace, justice and solidarity that characterize it, offering reasons for optimism and hope in the face of the challenges that the international community will have to face in the coming years.
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