World

Danish king thanks public for supporting him, Mary

By AAP Newswire

Jan 1, 2025

Denmark's King Frederik X has held a live New Year's address for the first time, continuing a long-standing tradition that achieved cult status under his mother and predecessor Queen Margrethe II.

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The speech is closely followed by the Danes every year - including the last one in which Margrethe announced her abdication after 52 years on the throne, which came as a complete surprise.

Frederik thanked the Danish population for the support he and his Australian-born wife Queen Mary have received since he assumed the throne.

"Mary and I couldn't have wished for a better start as royal couple," he said.

At the same time, the king drew attention to some of the difficulties faced by young people in Denmark, the work of volunteers and the difficult global situation.

"We are living in troubled times," he said.

"We are following the developments in the Middle East with bated breath and sympathise with the many families who are suffering."

"In Europe - not far from here - the Ukrainian people are fighting bravely for their freedom - and for ours," Frederik said.

The royal address was broadcast from Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen by the Danish Broadcasting Corporation.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press