On the evening of Thursday, May 26, 2022, His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain attended the Foreign Policy Association’s Annual Gala Dinner held at the Harvard Club in New York City. Established in 2018, the purpose of the FPA is to “…serve as a catalyst for developing awareness, understanding, and informed opinion about US foreign policy and global issues.”

During the gala, His Majesty received the Foreign Policy Association (FPA) Medal. The award is presented to individuals who demonstrate responsible internationalism and work to expand public knowledge of international affairs.

Upon receiving the FPA Medal, His Majesty gave a speech:

“It pains me, but I cannot begin my remarks tonight without a word of profound sorrow, disgust, and condemnation in the wake of the violent attacks and killings that have that have taken place in the past days and weeks [referring to the attacks in Buffalo, NY and in Laguna Woods, CA] today out thoughts and hearts and with the 21 victims of the Texas school tragedy. So, I would like to express on behalf of the Spanish people my deepest condolences to their families, friends, to the U.S. authorities at this difficult time.

Upholding freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights and dignity involve a relentless commitment. It seems like an everlasting job, regardless of the transformations the World endures. We cannot take them for granted. Unfortunately, many events are a permanent reminder of that and, therefore, demand our current utmost and generous effort.”