Mariano Rajoy thanks Guardia Civil for their "commitment" and "generosity" in defence of democratic rights and values

Plaza de Oriente, Madrid

The President of the Government stressed that the commitment and generosity of the Guardia Civil is what "allows our society to fully exercise its democratic rights and values". He added that "the Benemérita is a source of pride for us all", and testimony of that is that in the last few years, it has been "the most highly rated institution by the Spanish people", as reflected in polls carried out by the Sociological Research Centre (Spanish acronym: CIS).

After thanking the Guardia Civil for their "silent and responsible dedication" over the last 171 years, the President of the Government highlighted that those who belong to this noble body render their services "without seeking any other satisfaction other than fulfilling their duty".

The flag, a symbol of the nation and sovereignty

According to Mariano Rajoy, these "exceptional services" are what we want to reward today by handing over the national flag, "the highest collective distinction that can be awarded to a great unit of the Guardia Civil".

The President of the Government asserted that "the flag of Spain is the flag of us all" and, moreover, "symbolises the nation, is a sign of the sovereignty, independence, unity and integrity of our common homeland and represents the higher values expressed in the Spanish Constitution".

Mariano Rajoy also underlined that "it is always important to honour the symbols that unite us all", because by respecting them we are respecting ourselves and our project for a modern, prosperous and open country, a country that knows how to give value to its unity and showcase its diversity".

The work of the Guardia Civil, at home and abroad

The President of the Government recalled the words of King Felipe VI during his proclamation speech in Parliament. "There are many ways to feel Spanish", but "they are all based on the equality of all the people of Spain, on the solidarity of its peoples and on respect for the law".

The President of the Government stressed that since its foundation the Guardia Civil has always found a way to adapt and remain neutral "to the contingencies of each political period". Moreover, he recalled that the "protective" work of the Benemérita has not only been carried out in Spain, but it has also done a "great job" in countries such as Haiti, Lebanon, Senegal and Nepal.

Key to the political defeat of ETA

The President of the Government also underlined one of "the greatest achievements" of the Guardia Civil: "Its key role in the political defeat of the terrorist gang ETA". On this point, Mariano Rajoy paid tribute both to the 243 officers of the Guardia Civil who have died in terrorist attacks while doing their duty and to the families of all those officers, who have always known how to be a "calm rearguard".

The effectiveness of this body in the fight against terror has crossed borders and has recently been recognised with the maximum award - the Legion of Honour.

He also recalled that "the determination and perseverance" of the Guardia Civil has enabled the tragic death of the young Eva Blanco to be cleared up 18 years on. "Once again, you have been key to justice prevailing", he said.