President of the Government attends formal opening of 14th Legislature

Lower House of Parliament, Madrid

The Members of the Upper and Lower Houses of Parliament met at a joint session of the two parliamentary chambers in the Lower House to formally open the 14th Legislature, following the investiture of the President of the Government and the formation of the government.

In her speech, the Speaker of the Lower House, Meritxell Batet, recalled that this is the first coalition government of Spanish democracy and backed the Constitution and public institutions, and called for respect, dialogue and consensus to respond to the problems of Spanish citizens.

Subsequently, the King, accompanied on the podium by the Queen, the Princess of Asturias and Princess Sofía, addressed Parliament to officially commence the legislature. Felipe VI underlined in his speech that Parliament represents all the people of Spain and reiterated his commitment to Spain and to the Spanish people, to democracy, to liberty and to the Constitution - the meeting point for all citizens. He also highlighted the pluralism of Parliament, the territorial diversity of Spain and the importance of a willingness to reach understandings and forge agreements as well of the task of the opposition to exercise control.

Upon the conclusion of the ceremony, the King and Queen went to the Lost Steps Hall to greet the members of the government, the Presidents of the Constitutional Court and of the General Council of the Judiciary, and the rest of the public officials and guests.

Non official translation