King of Spain calls for unity in Christmas speech

MADRID, Dec. 24 (Xinhua) -- Juan Carlos, the King of Spain, called for unity in his Christmas message to the Spanish citizens broadcast on Christmas Eve.

All Spaniard should redouble their efforts to surpass the tensions, achieve economic growth, and create employment as soon as possible, and those efforts should be made through agreements between political, economic and social forces to allow maximum solidarity and to carry out necessary reforms, said the Spanish king.

Juan Carlos also urged Spanish citizens to coordinate efforts at the maximum level to reinforce the internal cohesion and exterior projection, because the security, progress and welfare of the Spaniards largely depend on efficient protection and promotions of their interests in the world.

The King also referred to the fact that Spain will take over the European presidency for the fourth time from Jan. 1 as the Lisbon Treaty takes effect.

"It is of vital importance to obtain a more united and dynamic Europe in the world," he said.