Prince Felipe expresses desire to serve Spain

Prince Felipe, heir to the Spanish throne, who would be proclaimed Felipe VI June 18, has expressed his desire to serve the country during his first public appearance.

The Prince of Asturias Wednesday attended the Prince of Viana Prize for Culture ceremony in Navarra, Spain, Xinhua reported.

Felipe said he believed in "dedicating all my strength with hope and expectation to the passionate task of continuing to serve the Spanish people and our beloved Spain. A nation, a united and a diverse social and political community, which has its roots in a long history".

Juan Carlos announced his abdication Monday after almost 39 years of rule as the King of Spain.

"In a time of difficulties such as the one we are going through, the experience of past times teaches us that only if we unite forces and put the common good ahead of individual interest, as well as giving an impulse to the initiative, the investigation and creativity of each person, we will be able to advance towards something better."

On Sunday, both Prince Felipe and Juan Carlos will attend the celebrations of Armed Forces day in Madrid.