During her brief trip to Rome, Queen Letizia bitterly noted that hunger remains an “open wound” for many regions of the world. These words were part of her powerful address at World Food Day, held at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). At the event, she met with Pope Leo XIV. This was their second meeting since his enthronement mass last May at St. Peter’s Square, which took place after the passing of Pope Francis.
The event was dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the UN agency, established after World War II to eradicate hunger. Prominent political leaders and members of royal families attended, including Italy’s Council of Ministers President Giorgia Meloni, King Letsie III of Lesotho, and Princess Basma bint Ali of Jordan. Pope Leo XIV was the last to arrive and warmly greeted everyone, offering photographers a memorable moment alongside Felipe VI’s wife. They exchanged a firm handshake, smiles, and a few words. Afterwards, the Queen listened attentively to the pontiff’s speech, and cameras captured the moment when she applied lip balm—a gesture that also caught the public’s attention.
Unlike previous meetings with Pope Francis and attending Mass at the Vatican, this time Queen Letizia did not use the so-called “privilege of white.” This unwritten rule allows Catholic queens to wear white during audiences with the head of the Holy See. Instead, she chose an outfit that combined business and romantic styles. The queen paired two wardrobe staples: a strict pantsuit and a blouse with an eye-catching detail—a voluminous ribbon bow, often seen in Kate Middleton’s looks. This combination added a classic and feminine touch to the ensemble.
For accessories, Doña Letizia chose nude stiletto pumps. As a nod to the hosts, she completed her outfit with a handbag from the Italian brand Furla. The urban-style model with a floral print and a short handle nicely balanced out the otherwise monochrome ensemble.
The conference, held under the motto “Hand in hand for better nutrition and a better future,” was opened by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu, who invited Pope Leo XIV to deliver the first address. In his speech, delivered in Spanish and English, the pontiff expressed regret about the “use of hunger as a weapon of war” and called for joint efforts to resolve food issues.
Queen Letizia’s speech was equally emotional. She reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to the FAO’s goals, highlighting the country’s deep historical ties to the organization. The Queen noted that Spain actively promotes the right to adequate food, strengthens cooperation with parliaments—especially in Latin America—and supports the FAO’s work with indigenous peoples. She also referred to the recent words of her husband, King Felipe VI, delivered before the UN General Assembly, stating that “human dignity is not open to debate.” Quoting the late Pope Francis, she reminded listeners of the need for solidarity and the importance of not distancing oneself from others’ suffering. These remarks were well received by the new head of the Catholic Church, who responded with applause.
After the official ceremony, Doña Letizia met with Spanish FAO staff and visited the Museum of Food and Agriculture—a space where art and tradition blend with innovation, offering an interactive journey through the agro-food systems of the past, present, and future.
