Luc Frieden: "The monarchy remains a symbol of stability and a hallmark of Luxembourg"
Source: Luc Frieden Facebook page
In an interview with Télécran magazine, Prime Minister Luc Frieden shared his memories and reflections on the 25th anniversary of Grand Duke Henri's reign and the upcoming handover to the heir, Guillaume.
Frieden recalled witnessing the change of monarch in 2000: "I saw it as a historic moment. I was still taking the oath of office before Jean, and Henri came to the throne shortly afterwards. It was a moment when you could feel history itself.
According to the prime minister, the attitude of Luxembourgers towards the monarchy has not changed in a quarter of a century: most are still proud of the way the Grand Ducal family represents the country. However, the growing number of foreigners is changing the perception of the institution, and Henri has always emphasised that he is the head of state for everyone in the country, not just native Luxembourgers.
Frieden also recounted difficult episodes - such as 2008, when the Grand Duke refused to sign the assisted suicide law. At the time, Frieden was justice minister and spent long hours of discussion with the monarch: "It was important that democracy in a constitutional monarchy could function. We found a solution with a constitutional amendment. It was an impressive moment in history."
On the future of the monarchy, the prime minister added: "A few years ago, parliament could have abolished the monarchy when the constitution was revised, but it didn't happen. The majority of the population prefers to have a supra-party head of state rather than a politician from one party." The monarch, he said, is the symbol of the nation and the country's "calling card" outside its borders.
Speaking of the heir, Frieden emphasised the close relationship with Guillaume, developed over nearly 30 years of joint trips and economic missions: "We often talked about both work and personal things. This trust will be beneficial for the country as well." In his opinion, the new monarch will be closer to society: he attended a regular Luxembourg school and his style will be less formal than that of his predecessors.
"I wish the future grand ducal couple joy in their mission, the support of the people and good co-operation with the government," the prime minister concluded.
