ANP Productions | Source: ANP
Wednesday April 17, 2024 at 8:40 PM
Amsterdam
King Willem-Alexander thanked King Felipe of Spain on Wednesday for allowing Princess Amalia to live and study in Madrid for a year. In his speech at the state banquet in the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, the king called the help provided by his Spanish colleague “a moving proof of friendship in a difficult time”.
“A visit to Spain always feels like a warm embrace. Not only for us, but also for our eldest daughter,” Willem-Alexander said in his speech. “Last year, due to circumstances, she had to live in Madrid. From there she was able to continue her studies at the University of Amsterdam. This was made possible by the kind efforts of many of your compatriots and yourself. (…) I would like to thank you and all many thanks to others who helped to arrange this.”
On Tuesday it was announced that Amalia had spent a long time in Spain due to serious threats. She can now live and study in the Netherlands once more. The princess herself will also be present at the state banquet on Wednesday. It is the first time that she takes part in an incoming state visit.
‘Total Football’ by Johan Cruijff
The king also said in his speech that he and Queen Máxima have close personal ties with Felipe and his wife Queen Letizia. “We see each other regularly. The only thing missing was a state visit,” the king said. Spain also has a “special place” in the hearts of the royal couple because the spark between the king and queen flew in Seville 25 years ago. “And the rest is history.”
Willem-Alexander also pointed out several other similarities with Spain. According to the king, both countries often worship “the same masters”. Not only in culture, but also in football, for example. “We both admire Johan Cruijff. The man who taught the Spaniards how to play total football. Perhaps too good, I might say.”
