Dutch Queen Beatrix Hands Over Throne to Son

Thousands of spectators are expected to gather along the streets of Amsterdam today as the celebrated Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands hands over the throne to her eldest son, Willem-Alexander.

Queen Beatrix, 75, will sign the document for abdication in Amsterdam having earlier announced to relinquish the crown in January to give way to her son.
In a televised address on Monday, Queen Bea thanked the people for the support throughout her 33-year reign. She also asked the people to support her son, Willem-Alexander as he takes on the crown.

She said Willem-Alexander is ready for the duty ahead of him and “will apply himself with true devotion” on his responsibility as king.

In the address, Queen Bea also praised her late husband Prince Claus who according to her, helped bring the House of Orange “closer to this time”. She said her choice of partner was her “best decision”.

Other royal families and high-ranking officials, including Prince Charles and his wife, are expected to attend the ceremonies.

Willem Alexander, 46, earlier said he wants to be a king “that can bring society together” in the 21st century.

Willem-Alexander will then become the country’s first king since the death of Willem III in 1890. His wife Maxima, 41, will become queen consort.

Source: bbc.co.uk, news.sky.com, huffingtonpost.com