Friday. 22.11.2024
'DIA DE LA HISPANIDAD'

Whistles and boos to Sánchez in military parade of Spain national day

The 'Dia de la Hispanidad' marks the arrival of Christopher Columbus in America in 1492 and the common roots of the Spanish-speaking world

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, along with the royal couple Felipe and Letizia and the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles. Photo: Twitter/@desdelamoncloa.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, along with the royal couple Felipe and Letizia and the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles. Photo: Twitter/La Moncloa.

With most coronavirus restrictions in Spain already lifted, the country marked its national day on Tuesday with a large military parade.

King Felipe VI watched as more than 2,600 servicemen and women with 215 vehicles paraded past him in the centre of the capital.

In the sky, 68 fighter and transport planes as well as air force helicopters flew low over Madrid.

The celebration was held under the motto "Service and Commitment."

The 'Dia de la Hispanidad' marks the arrival of Christopher Columbus in America in 1492 and the common roots of the Spanish-speaking world.

In several Latin American countries, the holiday has since been abolished or, as in Argentina, renamed "Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity."

Whistles and boos

Spain's left-wing head of government Pedro Sanchez also took part in the ceremony in Madrid.

As is often the case during joint appearances with the king, Sanchez was met with whistles and boos from the ranks of the more conservative spectators.

Last year, with the coronavirus outbreak still raging, there was only a small ceremony presided over by the king and without the public.

Now, the seven-day incidence rate of infection has dropped to about 20, almost 78% of the population has been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, and only 5.5% of all beds in intensive care units are still occupied by coronavirus patients.

Whistles and boos to Sánchez in military parade of Spain national day