Felipe VI highlights the union between Spain and Italy in historic speech before the Cortes.

King Felipe VI's speech before the Italian Parliament marked a milestone in the relationship between Spain and Italy, highlighting not only the closeness between the two nations but also the need to face the challenges of the current world together. In an international context marked by uncertainty, the King of Spain emphasized the importance of multilateralism and the crucial role played by southern European countries, particularly those in the Mediterranean, in shaping a rules-based world order. The Spanish monarch began his address by recalling his personal ties to Italy, mentioning his father, the former king Don Juan Carlos, who was born in Rome. This symbolic gesture not only reinforced the idea of brotherhood between the two countries but also highlighted the shared heritage that unites Mediterranean nations. Felipe VI made it clear that the relationship between Spain and Italy transcends mere diplomacy; it is a connection deeply rooted in history and culture. One of the highlights of the speech was the defense of multilateralism. Despite the political differences that exist today, with a leftist government in Spain and a right-wing administration in Italy, the King emphasized the similarity of the challenges both countries face. In this sense, he called for joint efforts to strengthen the international institutions that guarantee peace and stability. At a time when the erosion of multilateral institutions is evident, Felipe VI warned of the dangers posed by questioning the effectiveness of international treaties and forums. For the monarch, the development of a "Mediterranean voice" is crucial for both Spain and Italy to influence the European response to the global issues affecting the region. This approach is not only necessary to tackle current challenges but also to ensure a prosperous and peaceful future on the continent. The current geopolitical situation, marked by conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East, took center stage in his speech. Felipe VI urged the international community to maintain support for Ukraine in its quest for a just peace, as well as condemning the violence in the Middle East. His call for a definitive ceasefire reflects a firm stance in favor of peace and diplomacy as indispensable tools for conflict resolution. The King also addressed the challenges facing the European Union, emphasizing that the current legislature is "decisive." In a world where the climate crisis, security, and migration are pressing issues, Felipe VI highlighted the need for Spain and Italy to position themselves as reliable allies within NATO, working towards a peaceful and secure Euro-Atlantic region. Regarding migration, a topic that has generated controversy between the governments of Sánchez and Meloni, the monarch advocated for a humanitarian approach. He underscored the importance of providing dignified treatment to immigrants and coordinating efforts to make the Mediterranean an open and prosperous space. This stance highlights the need for constructive dialogue between nations, despite differences in approach. The message of brotherhood and cooperation that Felipe VI conveyed in his speech is not only a reminder of the historical bond between Spain and Italy but also a call to action at a critical moment for Europe. The willingness of both countries to move forward together towards a common future, despite the challenges presented by the 21st century, resonates strongly in current politics. As the world faces profound changes and uncertainty looms over the future, the message from the King of Spain resonates as a beacon of hope. By advocating for multilateralism and cooperation, Felipe VI not only honors the shared history of Spain and Italy but also charts a path forward, uniting two nations in the pursuit of a safer and more prosperous future. This joint vision is essential to tackle the global challenges that concern us all, reminding us that, in the diversity of their approaches, unity is the key to advancing in the contemporary world.