Oviedo, Spain - Spain's King Juan Carlos on Monday defended
the monarchy against growing criticism, saying it had contributed to
'the longest period of stability and prosperity in democracy
experienced by Spain.'
Speaking at the opening of a university term in the northern city
of Oviedo, the monarch said young people should be taught about
'democratic coexistence, mutual understanding and respect, tolerance
and freedom.'
The king's comments took on a special relevance at a time when
anti-monarchist protests staged by Catalan separatists have
multiplied in the north-eastern region.
Small groups of radical separatists have burned pictures of King
Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia. Attempts by the judiciary to stem such
protests have backfired, prompting new rallies.
Separatist and far-left parties have also accused the royal family
of lack of financial transparency. The Catalan separatist party ERC
proposed that the prime minister head the armed forces instead of the
king.
Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero's Socialist government
has sided with the monarchy, stressing its solid position and the
need to express any disagreements in a polite and respectful manner.
King Juan Carlos has enjoyed widespread popularity since thwarting
a coup attempt in 1981. The 69-year-old monarch is credited with
helping to strengthen democracy after the death of dictator Francisco
Franco in 1975.
© 2007 dpa - Deutsche Presse-Agentur 
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