The state visit of King Felipe and Queen Letizia to Egypt is taking place in an international context of great tension. Every public appearance takes on a special meaning amid regional instability and political uncertainty. The visit has become a reflection of the symbolic role played by the Spanish monarchy.
Since their arrival in Cairo, the royals have combined institutional solemnity with more personal moments. Letizia chose a black dress that set the tone for the first day. Meanwhile, Felipe VI delivered a speech filled with references to the crisis in Gaza and the shared desire for peace with Egypt.
A solemn start in Cairo
The queen's first public appearance was marked by sobriety. Her serious expression and mourning attire conveyed the gravity of the moment. All of this reinforced the message of solidarity with the victims of the conflict in the Middle East.
Felipe VI's speech at The St Regis Cairo hotel underscored this same idea. In front of hundreds of Spaniards living in Egypt, the monarch showed warmth and empathy. The king's words were received with attention and gratitude in an atmosphere filled with emotion.
In his address, the king said: "This trip is taking place at a turbulent and tragic time in the region." Aware of the suffering in Gaza, he called for dialogue and reconciliation. The message resonated with the compatriots present, many of whom have been affected by the situation in the area.
The most tender detail of the visit
Although solemnity defined most of the day, there was also room for the warmth that characterizes the royals. During the reception, Felipe VI made an unexpected gesture. The king affectionately took the hands of a nun who looked at him with admiration.
The scene did not go unnoticed among those present. The monarch's gesture reflected a more intimate side of his character, far from protocol formality. It was a spontaneous moment that softened the seriousness of the first day in Cairo.
Letizia, meanwhile, gradually regained her smile during the reception. After hours of seriousness, she appeared more relaxed while talking with the guests. The queen thus confirmed her ability to balance solemnity and warmth at official events.
An agenda shaped by diplomacy
The visit continues with high-level meetings in Cairo and Luxor. Yesterday, Wednesday, the royals were received with honors by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and his wife. After the meeting, an official lunch was held at Al-Ittihadiya Palace.
This time, there will be no gala dinner, as it is not part of protocol custom in Egypt. The royals' agenda is fully focused on strengthening bilateral ties with Egypt. The work program includes political, economic, cultural, and scientific matters aimed at consolidating cooperation between both countries.
Among those attending the events are diplomats, representatives of the Cervantes Institute, and international organizations. The presence of Spanish archaeologists working in Egypt also stands out. Their missions, more than a dozen, have strengthened the cultural bond between both countries.