Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg announced in his Christmas speech on Tuesday that he would abdicate on October 3, 2025, and hand over the throne to his son, heir apparent Grand Duke Guillaume, UNN reports, citing The Brussels Times.
Details
The announcement marks the end of Henri's nearly 25-year reign.
The eldest son of Grand Duke Jean and Princess Josephine-Charlotte of Belgium, 69-year-old Henri has been the head of state of Luxembourg since October 7, 2000.
"The year 2024 is coming to an end, and Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on the past year," he said at the beginning of his speech, which was also published on the Grand Duke's family website. - "This time I do so with great excitement, as it is the last time I will give a Christmas speech as head of state.
Preparations for the abdication have been underway for some time. On June 23, Luxembourg's national holiday, Henri appointed his son Guillaume as viceroy-representative, an important first step toward succession.
Guillaume has been married to Princess Stephanie de Lannoy, a Belgian countess, since October 2012. They have two sons.
"I know that Prince Guillaume and Princess Guillaume will do their best to contribute to the well-being of our country," Grand Duke Henri said. He added that he reflects on his reign with "great gratitude and humility.
Henri also expressed confidence in the future. "I firmly believe in the next generation that will take responsibility for a world that we hope will be more peaceful and sustainable," he said. - "For most of my generation, the time has come to retire. It is a natural process.
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