Sir, – The Irish Times has reported extensively on the king of Spain's abdication. I refer in particular to your editorial ("Passing on the crown", May 4th) and to an article regarding this event of historical significance for Spain, which also commented on the king's role during the transition from dictatorship to democracy in my country ("Unfinished business for democracy in Spain", Opinion & Analysis, June 4th).
Regrettably, your editorial affirms that the “transition to constitutional democracy [was] far more peaceful – though still bloody – than anyone had imagined possible”. Similarly, the Opinion & Analysis article states that the transition “happened in a relatively bloodless way”.
In my opinion, this is not a fair and accurate description of the transition. It is widely recognised that the Spanish political transition was a peaceful and bloodless process, based on a spirit of consensus among political and social forces, which made possible the adoption in 1978 of our constitution. The Spanish transition has been internationally praised as an example of successful national reconciliation.
Your editorial rightly states that “very few European political leaders of our times . . . measure up to [the king’s] stature” and that many Spaniards are deeply grateful for his role in “clearing the way from that dictatorship to four unprecedented decades of freedom and prosperity”.
The announcement of the king’s abdication opens a new political cycle in Spain. A new generation, represented by the future King Felipe VI, is now called to respond to the challenges of our times, building on the achievements of our successful transition. – Yours, etc,
JAVIER GARRIGUES,
Ambassador of Spain
to Ireland,
Merlyn Park,
Dublin 4.