His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain officially abdicated on 18 June 2014 in favour of then-Crown Prince Felipe. President Tony Tan Keng Yam has written a valedictory letter to King Juan Carlos I and a congratulatory letter to King Felipe VI.
The text of the letters is enclosed.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
20 JUNE 2014
17 June 2014
His Majesty King Juan Carlos I
The Kingdom of Spain
Your Majesty
On behalf of the people of Singapore, I offer my best wishes as you step down from the Spanish throne in favour of Crown Prince Felipe.
Since your inauguration in 1975, you have been a stabilising force for your country, and a well-respected and beloved figure. Your instrumental role in guiding Spain through its peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy cannot be overstated. Throughout your reign, you have protected Spain’s interests with dignity, wisdom and foresight. I have no doubt that you will continue to do so in the years to come.
You have been a true and longstanding friend of Singapore. Your State Visit to Singapore in June 2009 with Queen Sofia marked a milestone in the warm relations between our two countries. I am confident that the ties between Singapore and Spain will continue to deepen under the able leadership of Crown Prince Felipe.
Please accept, Your Majesty, the assurances of my highest consideration.
TONY TAN KENG YAM
19 June 2014
His Majesty King Felipe VI
The Kingdom of Spain
Your Majesty
On behalf of the people of Singapore, I offer my warmest congratulations on your inauguration as the King of Spain.
Singapore and Spain enjoy warm relations which are underpinned by cooperation across trade, aviation, culture and research, as well as in multilateral forums. As gateways to Asia, and to Europe and South America respectively, there is much potential for Singapore and Spain to build on the multifaceted relationship between our countries and find new opportunities for collaboration.
I am certain that Spain will benefit under your able leadership, and look forward to working with you to enhance relations between our two countries. I wish Your Majesty every success as you embark on your new role.
Yours sincerely,
TONY TAN KENG YAM