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European Royals

King Philippe has to take a break from State Visit to host EU leaders

By
19th April 2024

The King of the Belgians had to take a break from the State Visit he was hosting for the Grand Duke of Luxembourg as another important international gathering took place.

King Philippe opened the doors of the Royal Palace in Brussels to EU leaders as an extraordinary European summit took place in Brussels on April 18th 2024.

King Philippe and Grand Duke Henri during the second day of the State Visit
(Maison du Grand-Duc / Sophie Margue)

It was also the second day of the State Visit by Philippe’s cousin and friend, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg, but hosting duties were left to Queen Mathilde as the Belgian monarch greeted presidents and prime ministers as well as members of the European Council at a reception.

Earlier in the day, the King of the Belgians and the Grand Duke of Luxembourg had attended an economic forum at the Egremont Palace while Queen Mathilde and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa were at Bozar Brussels to see an exhibition on Belgian surrealism.

Grand Duchess Maria Teresa enjoyed a discussion during day two of her State Visit to Belgium (SIP/ Maison du Grand-Duc / Sophie Margue)

All four travelled to Ghent where they attended a series of events focussed on the importance of sea ports.

They also visited the Cathedral of St. Bavo where they were shown work by Van Eyck.

The Grand Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg arrive at a concert given by them to thank their hosts, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde
(SIP/ Maison du Grand-Duc / Sophie Margue)

However, King Philippe had to leave the Cathedral early to attend the EU reception.

He rejoined the royal party later as Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa hosted a concert by the Philharmonic Orchestra of Luxembourg as a thank you to their hosts for the State Visit.

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About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.