The King perceives in the archipelago a “reflection of diversity” and emphasises his admiration for the inhabitants, who “come together even more” during challenging times.
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 19 Sep. (EUROPA PRESS) –
On Thursday, King Felipe VI underscored his “dedication” to the Canary Islands and the archipelago’s significance as a “reflection of diversity” whilst receiving the Gold Medal in the Parliament of the Canary Islands, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of his reign.
“These islands are my home,” he remarked during an official speech at the regional Chamber, where he commended the example of “humanity” shown by volunteers and professionals assisting migrants who arrive in the archipelago “bereft of everything.”
The monarch, who was accompanied by the Minister of the Presidency, Félix Bolaños, along with key political figures of the Canary Islands, reiterated his admiration for the Canarian people for their ability to “come together even more” in adversity, a moment when “they showcase their finest qualities,” recalling the recent significant forest fires and the eruption of La Palma, which devastated crops, homes, schools, churches, and entire communities.
He noted that during his reign, he has endeavoured to “strengthen and enrich” his “shared history” with the Canary Islands, which dates back to the visit of his great-grandfather Alfonso XIII in 1906, emphasising that it “unites peoples and continents.”
“The Atlantic shapes its identity. With its geography and character, along with its Spanish and European culture, the Canary Islands connect the shores of America and Africa,” he articulated.
The King also mentioned that “constructing a better society is perpetually an unfinished endeavour, a continual learning experience” which “demands knowledge, courage, energy, balance, curiosity, and the capacity to innovate,” values that, in his view, are embodied by Canarian society. “As a Spaniard, I take pride in seeing my reflection in them,” he emphasised.
Felipe VI also reflected on the island’s “landscapes” of “sea and light” that lend it the character of a “unique land” and inspire its artists, including its skies, a “well of knowledge” channelled through the IAC.
“The Gold Medal from your Parliament represents, to me, a sign of your respect and affection, as well as a commitment I extend to your people. Present and future. It embodies the smile, the handshake, the embrace of the Canarian people as we navigate this path together, which we will continue to traverse. I will always hold it close to my heart,” he stated in conclusion.
ASTRID PÉREZ HIGHLIGHTS HER DEFENCE OF DEMOCRACY AND COEXISTENCE
Parliament Speaker Astrid Pérez has accentuated the monarch’s “connection” with the islands and his “strong commitment” to the archipelago, asserting that he “unquestionably” represents the values of “responsibility, integrity, honesty, and transparency.”
For Pérez, Felipe VI embodies a “revitalised monarchy” aligned with contemporary times, which also ensures the “protection of democracy” and “coexistence” in “tumultuous periods” following the conclusion of the health crisis and ongoing geopolitical challenges, with two wars on Europe’s doorstep.
In this context, she explained that the monarch “conveys tranquillity, confidence, and sensitivity,” while recognising his “engagement” and concern, for instance, regarding the volcanic eruption in La Palma or the recent fires in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
“The Royal Family has stood by us during our worst and best moments, offering us support, understanding, proximity, and commitment that will forever remain in our memories,” she underscored.
