The Head of State reflected briefly on Luxembourg’s past while offering a glimpse into his vision for the future of his reign.
He named his great-grandmother, Grand Duchess Charlotte, and his grandfather, Grand Duke Jean, as his role models, figures who he believes embodied hope and dignity for Luxembourg’s people during the nation’s darkest times.
Grand Duke Guillaume stated that his role is not only to preserve the traditions of the monarchy, but also to tackle the new challenges of the 21st century.
Together with his wife, Grand Duchess Stéphanie, the Grand Duke said he wants to champion an open and free society rooted in cohesion, inclusion, and solidarity, values Luxembourg should embody.
He went on to share what the European Union means to him, highlighting values such as solidarity, freedom, democracy, and equality, while emphasising that respect for the rule of law and human rights lies at the heart of his European commitment.
Among those attending the gala dinner were the German Federal President, the French President, and representatives of the Belgian and Dutch royal families. The Grand Duke also spoke about the Grand Duchy’s long-standing friendship and cooperation with its neighbouring countries.
In his speech, he shared his wish to blend the traditional values of his family with a modern, forward-looking European vision.
From the Grand Ducal family, Prince Félix and Princess Claire were present, along with Princes Louis and Sébastien, and Princess Alexandra’s husband, Nicolas Bagory.
Representing Luxembourg’s political scene were Prime Minister Luc Frieden and his wife Marjolijne Frieden, Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and his husband Gauthier Destenay, as well as Chamber President Claude Wiseler and his wife, MEP Isabel Wiseler-Lima.
