In an unprecedented gesture, the Spanish Head of State made direct reference to the "scourge" of sexual abuse within the ecclesial community. The Monarch highlighted the "enormous social work" of the Catholic Church, its clergy, and missionaries, contrasting it with the "pain caused by abuse cases," which he described as "not representative of the immense ecclesial community."

The King praised Pope Leo XIV's "clarity and firmness," considering them "essential in the healing and reparation process of the inflicted harm." These qualities, according to Felipe VI, are crucial "for the victims, for the faithful, for the Church, and for society as a whole."

The meeting took place at the Royal Palace, where the King and Queen, accompanied by Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, received the Pontiff. Subsequently, they held a private meeting followed by a gathering in the Throne Room with the main state authorities, including ministers, regional presidents, and opposition leaders.

During his address, the King welcomed the Pope to his seven-day apostolic journey through Spain, which will include visits to Madrid, Catalonia, and the Canary Islands. Felipe VI highlighted the importance of the shared language and the Pontiff's missionary work.

Addressing the challenges of the 21st century, the Monarch emphasized the need to focus on "human dignity, human rights, democratic values, and international legality" in a context of uncertainty. He identified Leo XIV as a "source of inspiration" that appeals to "all consciences" and promotes "empathy, understanding, and listening."

As part of the traditional exchange of gifts, the King and Queen presented the Pope with a facsimile edition of documents from Isabella the Catholic, maps of America, commemorative coins from the 'Gaudí year,' and Asturian products. The Pontiff, in turn, presented a mosaic of Christ the Sun and a commemorative medal of his trip to Spain, featuring references to the Virgin of Almudena, the Sagrada Familia of Barcelona, and the Canary Islands.