Members of the Spanish Royal Family have been continuing business as usual during this weekend’s landmark vote in Catalonia, where pro-independence parties won a majority of seats in parliament but not a majority of votes cast.
King Felipe was back in the U.S. this week to attend the Pope’s speech at the United Nations. His Majesty also addressed the General Assembly, focusing on sustainable growth.
Years ago, when Catalan President Artur Mas first started flirting with joining the pro-independence movement, King Juan Carlos said it was not the time for chimeras.
At Mount Vernon, they visited Washington’s tomb and gave curators a copy of the first American ambassador to Spain’s credentials, signed by the first president.
Their Majesties then went to the White House to visit President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.
The president said during brief remarks, “The Spanish people have hosted my family. I hope that I can travel to Spain before the end of my presidency. There’s no country that I’d enjoy more for a visit.”
The Spanish government has long been asking President Obama to visit the country.
“We are deeply committed to maintaining a relationship with a strong and unified Spain,” said the president, making a veiled reference to separatist sentiments in Catalonia.
The King said, “I follow in the footsteps of my father. He’s had a longstanding relationship with many Presidents of the United States.”
Queen Letizia had changed into an evening outfit for a reception with the Spanish community in Washington, including famed chef José Andrés.
The next morning King Felipe met with U.S. business leaders at the Spanish ambassador’s residence. He asked them to trust Spanish stability and economic growth.
They King and Queen took some time to greet workers and students who were gathered on campus.
On Thursday, the royal couple flew to Miami for a conference on Spanish in the U.S., and a Spanish film festival.
On Friday the trip ends in St. Augustine, where Their Majesties will mark the 450th anniversary of the former Spanish city.
They will give Ford Motor Co. CEO the Bernardo de Gálvez award. named for a Spanish colonial leader who helped the U.S. gain independence from Britain.
The AFD Group, a company of Russian doll-makers, recently unveiled one of Queen Letizia.
The company, which has made dolls of numerous celebrities and public figures, displayed their creation during a gathering in Spain this weekend.
Photo courtesy AFD Group.
The doll captures the Queen’s look during events surrounding the wedding of Prince William and Katherine Middleton in London.
News outlets around the world have reported on the doll, and also noted that it will not be for sale.
Back to school
Separately, last week King Felipe and Queen Letizia drove their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, to their first day of school after summer break.
LOS BORBONES 