Another first for Felipe

In the four months since he took the throne of Spain, King Felipe has packed in plenty of firsts. And today there is another to add to the list as he takes charge of the first State Visit of his reign.  The king has welcomed Michelle Bachelet, President of Chile, to Madrid on an official trip.

Felipe VI and Letizia welcome the President of Chile to Madrid on October 29th 2014

The visit by the Chilean president marks the first state visit of Felipe's reign.  Michelle Bachelet arrived early in the morning and was given an official welcome by the king and queen at the Pardo Palace in the Spanish capital. 

Part of the official welcome ceremony at the start of the state visit to Spain by Michelle Bachelet

Later on, President Bachelet held an audience with King Felipe at the Zarzuela Palace before enjoying a lunch hosted in her honour by the monarch and his wife.  In the evening they will host a gala dinner for their guest.

The King of Spain and the President of Chile at the Zarzuela Palace on October 29th 2014

The visit continues on October 30th with a reception at the Pardo Palace hosted by the Chilean president for her hosts.  And with that yet another first for Felipe VI of Spain will be completed. As the debuts begin to dwindle, he will get on with the day to day business of being a monarch. But for one day more he can revel in another first as he enjoys being the newest king on the continent.