The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation is the ministerial department of the Government of Spain responsible for formulating and executing the country's foreign policy. It coordinates Spain's relations with the European Union and international organizations, oversees diplomatic and consular missions worldwide, and directs international development assistance. Tracing its institutional origins back to 1714 when King Philip V established the First Secretary of State, the department historically operated as the Ministry of State before adopting its modern structure.