class=”sc-cffd1e67-0 fmXrkB”>
She only wants to remain queen for two more weeks, then it’s over: the Danish queen Margrethe II wants to abdicate. The 83-year-old said in her New Year’s speech on television on Sunday evening that she wanted to resign as regent on January 14, 2024. Margrethe II ruled the Danish kingdom for 52 years.
In February she had to undergo major back surgery. Due to the rehabilitation, she canceled numerous appointments or was represented by her son Crown Prince Frederik (55) and his wife Mary (51). Her eldest son – heir to the throne for 53 years – already attends appointments that the queen herself made. Frederik’s eldest son, Prince Christian (18), was recently allowed to officially represent the queen. Thanks to the health workers, the operation went well, but it made her think about her future as queen. She will now leave the throne to her son. Above all, she wanted to say thank you tonight – for the warmth and support shown to her over the years, the monarch said.
“Absolutely historic”
The world’s longest-serving monarch began the speech with comments on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, before discussing the climate crisis and artificial intelligence. After greeting the people of the Faroe Islands and Greenland, which are part of the Danish kingdom, the sensation was completely unexpected. Danish media described the announcement as “absolutely historic”. After the announcement, spontaneous applause broke out among the spectators who had gathered on the palace square in front of Amalienborg Palace. Margrethe had always emphasized that she wanted to remain on the throne until her death – until she pulled off the big surprise on December 31.
The monarch took over the throne after the death of her father Frederick IX. inherited on January 14, 1972. The always radiant and often smoking ruler is popular with the people; her New Year’s Eve speeches, like ‘Dinner for One’, have cult status in Germany. She is extremely creative and interested in art, considered pragmatic and sometimes a bit unconventional. Since the death of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, whose third cousin she was, Margrethe has been considered the longest-serving regent on earth. (SDA)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
