On Thursday and Friday, the heads of state of German-speaking countries gathered in Switzerland.
With exactly one month to go before the succession to the throne, the final details of Grand Duke Henri’s international engagements have now been confirmed, including exchanges in Bad Ragaz and St. Gallen.
Alongside Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter, participants included German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen, and King Philippe of Belgium. The gathering offered an occasion to thank Grand Duke Henri for his many years of close and fruitful cooperation.
It was an emotional moment for Luxembourg’s head of state, who will step down from his duties in one month’s time. "I received so many kind words from all the heads of state. They even gave me a small gift, which was very touching. Of course one feels a bit emotional, it is very moving to make this final trip abroad in Switzerland. It is particularly special, because I have many ties here. The Grand Duchess was Swiss, I studied in Switzerland, I go skiing here. I know Switzerland very well, and it is wonderful to conclude my final visit here", Grand Duke Henri said.
Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume will represent Luxembourg at the next gathering of German-speaking heads of state. He is well prepared and will do a wonderful job, Grand Duke Henri assured.
