On the morning of Thursday 23 Juen 2016, the national day of Luxembourg, the Philharmonie in Luxembourg-Kirchberg hosted the official celebration of the official birthday of HRH Grand Duke Henri.

In addition to the performance of the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gast Waltzing and with the singer Angélique Kidjo - who together won a Grammy Award earlier this year. The Speaker at the Chambre des Deputés, Mars di Bartholomeo, as well as Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and HRH The Grasnd Duke all addressed the audience which was made up of members of the Grand Ducal family, members of the government and parliament, and representatives of the Luxembourg City Council, the State Council, the judiciary and the diplomatic corps.

HRH the Grand Duke talked about unity and solidarity, stating "last year I was very touched by the solidarity of our population towards migrants who were greeted by thousands in our territory. The marked improvement in our economic situation is also a reflection of our ability to adapt and our ability to move forward". He referenced the Brexit vote in the UK taking place that same day, and focused on the issue of European integration. He referred to the birthplace of Robert Schuman close by and stated "The bottom line is that our country owes so much to the European idea and it concerns us to stay true to this heritage. It is also remaining faithful to it that we will find solutions to the many problems of the moment". He talked about the University of Luxembourg and concluded by stating "Vive le Luxembourg dans une Europe unie!".

Following the playing of the national anthem, Grand Duke Henri presented a number of awards, with the Institut européen de chant choral Luxembourg (INECC), the chamber choir Pueri Cantores and the Conservatoire de la Ville de Luxembourg performing in addition to the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra.

The event at the Philharmonie was followed by the official parade on the Avenue de la Liberté and the Te Deum in Luxembourg Cathedral, led by Jean-Claude Hollerich, Archbishop of Luxembourg.

Photos by Luc Deflorenne, copyright SIP