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King and Queen of Spain visit St. Augustine

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — Economic opportunity was part of the agenda with the king and queen of Spain during their visit to St. Augustine, but there was also plenty of fun.

The city and the monarchs traded gifts. The city got a painting of Pedro Menendez de Aviles, while the city gave the royal couple a replica of a Spanish monument made by a local student.

St. Augustine went all out for Spain's king and queen, with volunteers dressed in period clothing to salute the monarchs.
The young royal couple drew hundreds of people on Friday, like Maria and Fernando Dominicis, who drove from Melbourne. Maria Dominicis said she managed to snag a kiss on the cheek from the king.

"Yes, I'm not going to wash my face now," she said.

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Downtown St. Augustine was packed with royal fans who cheered as the king and queen spoke from the balcony of the government house.

"God bless you all. Viva, St. Augustine!" the king said

Aside from commemorating the 450th anniversary, the monarchs were on official business ahead of the U.S.-Spain council.
During a private lunch at Flagler College, King Felipe VI spoke about the importance of Florida to Spain.

"Spaniards, therefore, see Florida as a land of opportunity where they could easily relate in a particularly familiar culture and environment," the king said.

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He also highlighted the fact that the Sunshine State is home to 350 Spanish companies. Spanish and U.S. leaders hope to continue the dialogue through the weekend.

The king also led a toast to a continued partnership.

"Work ahead together to make this world a better place," the king said.

Forty percent of Spain's total investment in the United States comes from the companies established in Florida alone, so the link is strong not only culturally but financially. This weekend, leaders will continue the dialogue.