Former Spanish Prime Minister José María Aznar shared a photo of his recent meeting with former King Juan Carlos I on Instagram, describing him as the 'King of freedoms and democracy in Spain.' Although the location of their meeting isn't explicitly stated, it is believed to have occurred in Abu Dhabi, where Juan Carlos has been residing for over five years due to health issues. In the photo, Juan Carlos appears well, suggesting he has recovered from recent health concerns that previously kept him from traveling for family events.

This meeting comes at a significant time, as Spain is celebrating the 45th anniversary of its 1978 Constitution, the longest-lasting constitution in its history. Aznar's tribute to the former king reflects an ongoing respect for Juan Carlos's role in Spain's transition to democracy following decades of dictatorship. Aznar's comments and the timing of this meeting seem aimed at reaffirming the importance of democratic values and national unity during a period of political division in Spain.

The implications of this meeting may resonate beyond mere nostalgia, as it underscores the complexities of Spain's monarchical history and the continuing influence of the royal family in contemporary Spanish politics. While the monarchy has faced scrutiny over the years, figures like Aznar seek to remind the public of the foundational role Juan Carlos played in establishing democratic governance in the country over four decades ago.