Spanish Royal Family Visits Panama Aboard Juan Sebastián Elcano

Queen Letizia and Princess Leonor visited Panama aboard the training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano. Their trip involves royal and familial aspects, with the ship staying until May 6 for various cultural activities. Princess Leonor’s training is rigorous, providing lessons without royal privileges. The ship’s historical significance was highlighted during the visit.

Members of the Spanish royal family, including Queen Letizia and her daughter, Princess Leonor, recently arrived in Panama aboard the training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano. Their visit, which started earlier this week, is significant as they engage in both official duties and some family time. The ship will remain in Panama until Tuesday, May 6, and it is anticipated that both mother and daughter shared some candid moments during their time together.

During a brief chat that lasted approximately thirty minutes, the princess and Queen Letizia engaged in a heartfelt discussion. Commander Luis Carreras – Presas do Campo observed the meeting without divulging specifics, noting that the queen embraced her moment as a parent, cherishing time with her daughter. He mentioned that despite their royal status, Princess Leonor participates in the same training program as her classmates, without any special privileges.

The Jose Sebastian Elcano is expected to cross the Panama Canal en route to Colombia. Princess Leonor undergoes rigorous training aboard the ship, with daily sessions lasting between five and eight hours on 18 subjects, while also assuming various duties to gain hands-on experience at sea. The commander emphasized that the princess’s training remains the primary focus, likening her experience to that of any other student.

The Spanish Navy’s Juan Sebastián Elcano, a notable vessel in operation since 1928, serves as a valuable educational platform for future naval officers. Its connection to the history of Spain’s maritime training is profound, with approximately 23,000 sailors having sailed on the ship since its inception. Last year’s stopover saw similar discussions on the ship’s educational impact, highlighting its significance as a “floating embassy” for Spain.

Meanwhile, during this visit, Queen Letizia was seen greeting the captain of the Elcano and the Spanish Ambassador to Panama, His Excellency Guzmán Palacios. It is unclear whether she will extend her stay in Panama beyond Sunday, May 4. Regardless of duration, the royal family’s visit underscores the importance of naval training and Spain’s maritime heritage.

In summary, the visit of Queen Letizia and Princess Leonor on the Juan Sebastián Elcano symbolizes the blend of royal duties and education in a naval context. Royalty, while engaging in substantive activities, also reflects on familial bonds, reinforcing their human aspect. The ship’s extensive history emphasizes its role in shaping future maritime leaders from Spain.

Original Source: menafn.com