In this letter, the Sovereign expressed his high regard for the commendable efforts undertaken by King Juan Carlos I to serve the best interests of the Spanish people and to position the Kingdom of Spain as an active and influential nation at the regional and international levels.

   "The Spanish people will never forget your pioneering role, alongside the forces of the nation, in making the transition to democracy in your country," said His Majesty.

   On this occasion, HM the King expressed to King Juan Carlos I his pride in the strong ties of friendship and mutual respect between the two sovereigns and two royal families, and the relations of cooperation between the two neighboring countries, reiterating his strong commitment to working with his successor, HM King Felipe VI, to further strengthen these ties in various areas.

   HM the King said he was confident that King Felipe VI, "thanks to the qualities he inherited from your illustrious royal family, his wisdom and foresight, will continue the efforts you have undertaken to achieve further progress and development for the benefit of the Spanish people, and to contribute to strengthening relations of friendship and cooperation to achieve the aspirations of two peoples to progress and prosperity."