Prince Felipe Honours Hispanic Heritage Month in the USA

The Prince of Asturias officially paid a visit to the United States from October 3rd to October 6th. His destination was Washington DC. On Wednesday, Prince Felipe visited Georgetown University, where he had earned a Master’s degree in international relations, to attend the inauguration of the Prince of Asturias library. During his speech, he noted that much has changed in Spain since he had been a student in the 1990’s and that major changes have been made “in politics, economy and in social matters” for the 21st century. The prince then uttered his desire for stronger ties between the United States and Spain.

After leaving the university, Prince Felipe appeared at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute gala at the Washington Convention Center. In his address, he reminded the two thousand guests that the United States has a significant Spanish influence, saying, “only Mexico has more Hispanics. Spanish heritage has been here for centuries, and it is as American as any other influence.”

On Thursday, Prince Felipe attended a reception at the Ambassador of Spain’s residence and visited the future site for the Center of Cultural Cooperation of Spain.

Before departing on Friday, Prince Felipe delivered a speech at the Inter-American Development Bank convention for Young Hispanic Leaders. He concluded his trip by attending a White House reception in honour of Hispanic Heritage Month, where he was warmly received by President George W. Bush. The president remarked, “I am proud to welcome a friend of my family's, His Royal Highness Prince Felipe de Borbon, the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Spain. His Royal Highness is here to help celebrate Hispanic Heritage month, which I think is a kind gesture and a noble gesture from a very important country. We're proud you're here, sir. Thank you for coming. Please give your best to His Majesty and your mom. And I will do the same on behalf of you to my father and Her Majesty, my mother.”