King Felipe of Spain resumed royal duties after the festive period by making a quick visit to Brazil for the inauguration of President Lula da Silva on Sunday. The monarch was accompanied by by his Minister of Foreign Affairs during the visit.
After landing at Brasilia Air Base, the King was met by Brazilian officials before traveling to meet workers at the Spanish Embassy.
Following his meeting at the embassy the King met President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal for lunch.
He then left for the National Congress for the official ceremony to mark the transition of power from President Bolsonaro to President da Silva.
According to Brazilian political tradition, a new President takes power on January 1 following an election after a four year term.
The ceremony began with a poignant moment of silence for Brazilian football legend Pele who died on December 29 due to colon cancer complications.
Former Pope Benedict XVI who died on December 31 was also remembered.
After the ceremony, the monarch joined the other guests for a reception at Planalto Palace.
The King also met President Umaro Sissoco of Guinea-Bissau.
READ MORE: Harry ‘wants family not institution’ and says royals won’t reconcile
He returned in 2003 to attend Mr Da Silvia’s first inauguration during his initial spell as Brazilian President after his own landslide victory.
On Friday, the Spanish Royal family will resume duties following the festive break for the annual Pascua Militar ceremony.
This is one of the most solemn military events on the calendar and marks the start of the new year.
