Felipe VI of Spain outlined his country’s important role inside the OECD during a recent session that framed a messy reordering of global influence. The world has endured a string of shocks—from financial turmoil and health crises to the war in Europe and a persistent energy squeeze with high inflation—and the pace of change surprised many observers.
During his remarks at the OECD, the king reminded the council that shifts in the world order were always expected, yet the speed of those shifts caught many by surprise. He warned that democracy, civil liberties, and human rights face serious pressure in today’s rapidly shifting landscape.
Reflecting on his earlier visit to the OECD when he was Prince of Asturias, Felipe VI noted that the planet is undergoing simultaneous transitions across energy, digital, and demographic fronts. He praised the OECD’s essential work and its practical relevance not only for member states but for the global community.
He commended the organization’s response to the health emergency, highlighting collective actions that protected workers and the productive base. As the health crisis subsided, the emphasis moved toward rebuilding with resilience, prioritizing robust, digital, green, and inclusive growth.
Turning to geopolitics, he cited Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and highlighted a swift, clear response that distanced Moscow from the OECD and supported Ukraine’s resilience and recovery when needed.
Felipe VI cautioned that the international environment remains intricate. Inflation, previously linked to protective fiscal measures in OECD discussions, continues to shape policy dialogue. He reaffirmed the importance of strategic cooperation to shield vulnerable populations.
He also praised the OECD’s partnership with the International Energy Agency to prepare for the coming winter and with the World Trade Organization to resist protectionist trends that could curb the benefits of globalization, particularly for North American consumers and workers.
According to the Spanish monarch, the current moment reveals new geopolitical dynamics. Competition across Africa, Latin America, and the Indo-Pacific has intensified, calling for deeper collaboration and flexible strategies that can work for Canada, the United States, and allied partners.
During the visit, the OECD Development Center was highlighted as playing an increasingly pivotal role as a bridge builder with these regions. The aim is to foster alliances and partnerships around the world to pursue shared prosperity in a way that benefits diverse economies in North America and beyond.
In a world that grows more complex and uncertain by the day, the focus remains on constructive, multilateral action. Spain reaffirmed its pride in being an active OECD member, committed to stronger policies that improve lives through cooperation and evidence-based decision making for citizens in Canada, the United States, and other member nations.
Accompanied by First Vice President and Minister of Economy Nadia Calviño, the ruler noted that the visit marked a return to the OECD’s headquarters after several years away. He signed the honor book and met with the Australian Secretary General, Mathias Cormann, before taking part in an upcoming Council session. (Source: OECD)
Related posts:
White Gaming Chair With Footrest The goalscorers of Lionel Scaloni’s cycle in the Argentina national team SEO rewrite by an expert analyst Generative Engine Optimization (GEO): The Future of SEO is Here Grok and the New Era of Transparent AI Development Grok AI Bot Across Platforms: Telegram, iOS, and North American Use Spain and Europe Face Slower Growth Amid War Costs: OECD Outlook 2023 Grok and xAI: Musk’s Real-Time AI Vision and Public Discussion Spain’s Pension Outlook: OECD Projections and Reform Impacts Girona overpower Mallorca in a 5-3 La Liga thriller to top the table Grok AI rollout on X expands access beyond early testers OECD GDP Growth in 2022: Regional Trends and Country Highlights