Spanish Royals Observe Pascua Militar

King Juan Carlos told Spain’s armed forces to be prepared for any threats against the country in the coming year. He said this during Pascua Militar, a military parade which marks the end of the holidays in Spain.

REUTERS/Manuel H. de Leon/Pool

“Together with the traditional threats and risks to peace and security, others capable of causing indiscriminate damage have arisen,” the King said to some 200 guests in the Royal Palace. He added that the government needs to be prepared to meet “complex and uncertain threats in a dynamic way.”

Juan Carlos also called the government to acknowledge the “self-improving, generous level of efficiency and delivery” of the Armed Forces. Additionally, he suggested Spain should be more involved with countries that share similar interests.

The King’s motivation behind those words may have to do with his country becoming the next EU nation to hold the presidency for the next six months. Sometime this month, a ceremony will take place to hand over power to Spain.

Pascua Militar began at noon local time with a 21 gun salute, and the playing of the national anthem at the Armory Square in Madrid.

King Juan Carlos and Crown Prince Felipe attended the event sans the beards they wore during last year. Queen Sofia and Crown Princess Letizia wore elegant, long red dresses, as traditionl calls for women at Pascua Militar to wear such outfits.