Tonight, on behalf of His Majesty King Felipe VI, Ambassador Cabanas named Ambassador Francis Rooney Commander of the Order of Queen Isabella I (Encomienda de la Orden de Isabel la Católica). Open to both Spanish and foreign citizens, the honor recognizes extraordinary civil achievements that contribute to friendship and cooperation between Spain and the international community.
Ambassador Rooney is a former Congressman from Florida's 19th District and former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See. During his time in Congress, Ambassador Rooney maintained a close relationship with the Embassy and defended the importance of Spain-U.S. relations, from shared values to strong modern relations in defense, trade, culture, and more.