Sparks Began To Fly at Seville’s Feria de Abril , Confesses King Willem-Alexander During State Visit

On April 17, 2024, a historic state visit took place at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, where representatives from Spain and the Netherlands gathered to strengthen their longstanding relationship. The event was marked by warm hospitality, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic discussions, highlighting the deep connections between the two nations.

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain were warmly welcomed by Queen Aus of the Netherlands, and the distinguished guests who included Mr Hero, Director of Cultural and Scientific Relations at the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, His Excellency Mr. Yet, Vice Prime Minister, and other esteemed members of both governments.

During the state banquet, King Willem-Alexander delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his joy at hosting the Spanish royals. He reminisced about his connection to Spain, recounting how his life with Queen Maxima began 25 years ago at the Feria de Abril in Seville. This touching moment added a romantic twist to the state visit, showcasing the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.

He said,’

Spain has a special place in our hearts. First because it was in your country that our life together began. 

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We were at the Feria de Abril in Seville 25 years ago. The sparks began to fly… 
And the rest is history…

The architectural collaboration between the two countries was also highlighted, with King Willem-Alexander praising the Spanish architects for their contribution to building the iconic Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. He added that Dutch architects have also been successful in Spain, showing their reciprocal influence in the field of architecture. King Willem-Alexander also stated that the Netherlands is a favourite destination for Dutch holidaymakers, and in the Netherlands, Spanish is spoken more and more often. This cultural exchange is a testament to the deep-rooted friendship and collaborative efforts towards a prosperous future between Spain and the Netherlands.

The state visit was not just a symbol of unity but also a platform for discussing mutual interests, including renewable energy, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable development goals and strengthening the European Union’s global role. The event showcased the shared values of freedom, democracy, and human rights that underpin the partnership between Spain and the Netherlands, emphasizing unity in promoting peace, security, and prosperity for all European citizens.

The state visit took place over two days, with the Spanish royals arriving in Amsterdam on the first day. They were officially welcomed by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima in Dam Square, where they laid a wreath at the National Monument. The delegations were introduced, and the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy played both countries’ national anthems. The Spanish royals then attended a Cruyff Foundation sports day, where they watched children participate in football, basketball, and kickboxing. On the second day, King Willem-Alexander and King Felipe visited the Port of Amsterdam and the EVOS and Sunoco terminals, where they discussed the development of a maritime hydrogen corridor between the ports of Bilbao and Amsterdam. The discussion focused on the partnership between the two ports, which was established in part through the joint efforts of the Dutch and Spanish governments. In the evening, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima hosted a state banquet at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, where the Kings gave speeches. The state banquet was also attended by Their Royal Highnesses Catharina-Amalia, the Princess of Orange, Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands, and Princess Margriet of the Netherlands.