Frederik X kisses wife as he becomes King of Denmark

New "World" post from BBC News: Frederik X kisses wife as he becomes King of Denmark https://ift.tt/WBTGERv https://ift.tt/2voxaQ8

Historic Succession in Denmark: King Frederik X Takes the Throne

In a momentous event witnessed by tens of thousands, King Frederik X succeeded his mother as the monarch of Denmark, marking a historic transition for the nation.

Emotional Moment at Christiansborg Castle

King Frederik X, visibly moved, acknowledged the cheering crowds outside Christiansborg Castle in Copenhagen. Expressing gratitude, he aspired to be "a unifying king" for the future, emphasizing the significance of this lifelong task.

Queen Margrethe's Voluntary Abdication

Queen Margrethe, his mother, formally abdicated an hour earlier, concluding an impressive 52-year reign. Her voluntary abdication makes her the first Danish monarch to do so in over 800 years, marking a unique moment in Danish history.

Unprecedented Gathering Despite Low-Key Plans

Despite expectations of a low-key event, a sea of people gathered outside Christiansborg Castle, underscoring the significance of this royal succession.

Proclamation by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen

On the balcony of the palace, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen proclaimed Frederik as the King of Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. The proclamation, declaring "Long live King Frederik the tenth," was made three times, formally sealing the transition.

King Frederik's Pledge to Unify

In his inaugural speech, King Frederik expressed his lifelong commitment to becoming "a unifying king of tomorrow." He paid heartfelt tribute to his mother, acknowledging her as an "extraordinary" regent.

Emotional Display on the Balcony

King Frederik's emotional reaction to the crowd's cheers was evident, with a tear wiped away as he absorbed the celebratory atmosphere. Joined by his four children, including Crown Prince Christian, the new heir to the throne, the balcony scene was a poignant moment.

Farewell to Queen Margrethe

As crowds lined the streets to bid farewell, Queen Margrethe, at 83, stepped down gracefully, revealing her decision on New Year's Eve. Reflecting on her surgery in early 2023, she expressed gratitude to the Danish public and handed over the responsibility to the next generation.

Continued Royal Titles

Queen Margrethe retains her title as Queen, and the King's wife, the Australian-born Queen Consort Mary, retains the title of Queen Consort.

International Well-Wishes

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla of Britain extended their best wishes, acknowledging Queen Margrethe's years of service to Denmark. Celebrations echoed in Australia, where the royal couple first met, and in Queen Consort Mary's home state of Tasmania and beyond. King Frederik X, at 55, now leads Europe's oldest monarchy into a new era.