Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg addressed the Luxembourg people on Christmas Eve, focusing on the continuing global health crisis and the benefits of democracy.
He said that Christmas is an opportunity to “remind us of the values which are fundamental for our living together: mutual aid, empathy, solidarity and respect. These values should guide us at a time when the pandemic is still present and weighs on our daily life.”
His Royal Highness went on to say that we have learned to live with the virus as science has made it possible via vaccines and medicine to bring the pandemic under control. He stressed that this is a long-term effort and that “solidarity within our society remains crucial.”
The Grand Duke thanked all those contributing to Luxembourg so that the country could emerge from the pandemic better than ever. He also touched on the importance of helping those in poverty and the importance of having global unity in fighting the global health crisis. The Grand Duke stressed the importance of getting vaccinated, saying: “Vaccination is the only way to get the better of this pandemic.”
He went on to speak of the importance of democracy and the freedoms that it provides. He stressed the importance of accepting the results of the majority and denounced violence as a response to losses.
Henri made a point to remind the people that there are other problems besides the ongoing pandemic. Specifically, he mentioned the flooding that hit Europe this year, including Luxembourg, that caused great devastation. He said that industrialisation has helped in many ways, but the planet is also suffering because of this. He then touched on the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow earlier this year and the decisions made there.
The Grand Duke said about achieving the goals set at the conference: “It will not be a simple task, but it is imperative that solutions be found with courage, determination and concerted efforts.”
He went on to praise the youth of Luxembourg for their knowledge and realism in sustainability, adding that they have a right to be involved in the conversations as the future belongs to them.
Grand Duke Henri spoke of the successful Luxembourgish economy, diversity, and his pride at Luxembourg being elected to the UN Human Rights Council. He spoke of having European solidarity as the pandemic continues.
He concluded by telling the people: “We have now been living with the pandemic for almost two years. We have not given up, and we must not allow ourselves to be demoralised.”
He then wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2022 on behalf of the entire Grand Ducal Family.
The Grand Duke of Luxembourg’s speech can be read in full here.
Source link : https://royalcentral.co.uk/europe/luxembourg/grand-duke-henri-talks-about-the-pandemic-and-democracy-in-christmas-eve-address-170121/
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Publish date : 2021-12-25 03:00:00
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