In Hornsens Monday, Denmark’s Princess Marie gave a speech on poverty and social exclusion among children. It took place at City Hall Square as part of a conference linked to children’s issues.
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“This is a topic that is well worth addressing not only in Denmark,” the Princess began. “The number of children in Denmark living in poverty is on the rise. Not least among children of immigrant families who are not from Western or other highly indusrialised countries. The financial crisis hardly helps either.”
“Poverty is of course not only about being fed and clothed and have a place to live,” she continued. “For children the social contacts and comparing yourselves with other children is very much an issue too.”
“Poverty is also about not being able to afford social medias, like phones, computers and whatever children use nowadays to stay in touch. It’s also about not being able to afford to go on holiday, something children of course discuss among themselves.”
“It’s also about the children wearing cheap clothing, because the parents cannot afford otherwise. It’s also very much about not being able to afford having your child join a sportsclub or other clubs, where the social interaction is extremely important.”
“These may seem fairly trivial problems seen from the outside and they are – except for the children. If there is one thing children do not want, it’s to feel left out,” Princess Marie concluded.
In her first trip to the Big Apple in over 30 years, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II visited the site of the 9/11 attacks and gave an historic speech at the United Nations. The visit to New York lasted only one day, following a nine day trip to Canada.
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer
In the morning, Her Majesty was at the U.N. headquarters where she was to make her first speech there since 1957 – four years after she was crowned Queen. She mentioned that as she opened her speech.
“Since then, I have travelled widely and met many leaders, ambassadors and statesmen from around the world. I address you today as Queen of sixteen United Nations Member States and as Head of the Commonwealth of 54 countries,” the Queen said.
“I have also witnessed great change, much of it for the better, particularly in science and technology, and in social attitudes. Remarkably, many of these sweeping advances have come about not because of governments, committee resolutions, or central directives – although all these have played a part – but instead because millions of people around the world have wanted them.
“For the United Nations, these subtle yet significant changes in people’s approach to leadership and power might have foreshadowed failure and demise. Instead, the United Nations has grown and prospered by responding and adapting to these shifts. But also, many important things have not changed. The aims and values which inspired the United Nations Charter endure: to promote international peace, security and justice; to relieve and remove the blight of hunger, poverty and disease; and to protect the rights and liberties of every citizen.”
Queen Elizabeth went on to congratulate the U.N. for its development since 1957, pointing out its numerous overseas operations and humanitarian actions.
But she also talked about the struggles in the present day, such as terrorism and climate change.
As she wrapped her speech, the Queen spoke about her hopes for the United Nations’ future.
“When people in fifty-three years from now look back on us, they will doubtless view many of our practices as old-fashioned. But it is my hope that, when judged by future generations, our sincerity, our willingness to take a lead, and our determination to do the right thing, will stand the test of time.
AP Photo/Fred R. Conrad, Pool
“In my lifetime, the United Nations has moved from being a high-minded aspiration to being a real force for common good. That of itself has been a signal achievement. But we are not gathered here to reminisce. In tomorrow’s world, we must all work together as hard as ever if we are truly to be United Nations.”
Afterwards, the Queen met with the Security Council and several U.N. diplomats.
Then, Her Majesty went to Ground Zero to lay a wreath in memory of those who died nearly 9 years ago in the terrorist attacks. She also met with the victims’ families and the rescue workers who responded first to the attacks.
At the end of her day, and in the sweltering New York heat, Queen Elizabeth went to the British Memorial Garden at Hanover Square, dedicated to the 67 British victims of 9/11, to officially open it.
With that, the Queen’s whirlwind visit to New York City was over. She flew back to Britain where she and her husband, Prince Philip, will rest from the Canadian and New York tours.
Some wondered if this would’ve been one of the 84 year-old monarch’s last overseas visits. There have been rumors of her cutting back on her duties. But recently it was revealed the Queen and Prince Philip will go the Middle East for official visits in the fall.
This past Thursday was Canada Day, a time when Canadians celebrate their country’s birth. For its 143rd year, its monarch, British Queen Elizabeth II was on hand to deliver a speech at Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, one that moved even the staunchest of republicans.
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Dressed in a red dress that blended in with the screen behind her, the Queen gave a short speech right after Prime Minister Stephen Harper spoke.
“Today we celebrate the history of Canada…Thank you for inviting Prince Philip and me to join you all on this special day,” she said, referring to her husband.
“I have watched with you in admiration as Canada has grown and matured while remaining true to its history, its distinctive character, and its values. This nation has dedicated itself to being a caring home for its own, a sanctuary for others, and an example to the world.”
“At home, Canadians have many reasons for optimism, even in trying times. The recent success of the Vancouver Olympics was about more than just the thrill of a gold medal for Canada’s hockey team. As well as renewing a sense of common purpose within this country, the Olympics showed to others something of the extraordinary warmth and enthusiasm of the people as Canada welcomed participants and audiences from around the globe.”
“I wish you all the very happiest Canada Day. God bless you all and God bless Canada.”
During her speech, Queen Elizabeth even spoke in French, Canada’s other official language.
For Canada Day, the Queen and Prince Philip enjoyed entertainment from several acts such as the Barenaked Ladies, Isabelle Boulay and Marjo, and traditional bagpipers. Quebecois singer Isabelle Boulet sang “God Save the Queen.”
Thousands had turned out to see the Queen of both the UK and Canada give her speech. Reports say it was one of the largest turnouts for Canada Day in recent memory. That, despite nearly half of Canadians saying they want to abolish the monarchy and permanently separate from Britain.
But it appears that the 84 year-old figurehead Queen still has the ability to influence people’s minds.
Sources: British Monarchy, British Royal Family Examiner
Right after their beautiful wedding, Crown Princess Victoria and her new husband, Prince Daniel, joined their friends, family and Swedish government leaders for the reception. It was very formal but it included lots of laughs and happy cheers for the newlweds.
Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
As soon as everyone sat down, King Carl XVI Gustaf gave a short speech in English. He first welcomed everyone to the reception and thanked them for coming. He expressed joy for his daughter and – dare he say! – his new son-in-law. Victoria raised her eyebrows in mock surprise over that while there was endearing laughter from Daniel.
The King ended his speech with a “Skål!” – the Swedish word for cheers. All in attendance raised their wine glasses and had a sip.
Later on, King Carl Gustaf stood again to give another speech. This time he went into depth about the wedding, and even mentioned how June 19th is also his wedding anniversary to Queen Silvia. To commemorate his 34th marriage year, he gave the Queen a pink rose, which made her weep.
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Daniel’s father, Olle Westling, gave his speech for the couple – in English:
“Your marriage is not only a family affair — it is something that affects all the people of Sweden. The warmth and joy that stream towards you today from near and far are a wonderful acknowledgement of appreciation.
“Many people see the fact that you met and fell in love as something of a fairytale. The man of the people who won the Crown Princess. Yes, it is indeed a fairytale, but I do not think it is a coincidence that this has happened here in Sweden, where The King´s motto is “For Sweden — With the Times”.
“Daniel, you are our dear son, and your mother, your sister and I have always been extremely proud of you. You have always
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chosen to go your own way, and you have done so with honour, whether in terms of your career choices, your friends or your leisure activities. Of course you never became a professional hockey player, but we´re still proud of you!
“But once we had met you, dear Victoria, and experienced the warmth that you bring and the openness you show to everyone in our family — and not just our family; I remember one day in the lingonberry forest in Ockelbo, how you greeted everyone who crossed your path and showed such wonderful warmth. That´s when we understood why Daniel had fallen for you. It was quite clear that he had waited and made his choice with great care. He had once again gone his own way.
“The best way of dealing with the great and important work that lies ahead of you is by helping each another. Talking with each other, supporting each other and working as a team are what will serve you best in the long run. This is something that Ewa and I have plenty of experience of, and we will gladly give whatever advice we can. As your parents, Daniel, your mother and I know that in Victoria you will have a loving, warm and kind-hearted wife.
“It falls to me — and this is a great honor — to thank you for the hospitality that we have all shared this evening. Our hosts have invited us to this gala evening with personal warmth and generosity — an evening that is far from over, and which we will always remember. But for the food and drink that we have enjoyed so far, I would like to thank you most humbly and sincerely on behalf of myself and all my fellow guests!”
With that, Olle Westling led those at the reception with four hurrahs for the newly married couple.
The newly Prince Daniel gave his speech, which he memorized rather than writing down. Below is a YouTube video of the entire speech, in both English and Swedish:
Soon after Daniel’s speech, the wedding cake came out. It was very tall, taller than some of the guests, with yellow trimmings and the couple’s monogram. Victoria invited her page boys and flower girls to come up with her as she and her new husband cut the cake.
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After the dessert, it was time to dance! Everyone moved into a larger room where they could dance more freely. A band was in the room waiting for them.
As tradition holds, the bride and groom dance for their first dance as a married couple. Victoria curtseyed before Daniel before they began their waltz. After they danced, Victoria invited everyone to the dance floor, and they obliged!
It was already after midnight when the dancing began, and but it was clear all the royals were willing to party all night.
Tomorrow, the King will host a luncheon for the guests. Perhaps that same day Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel would leave for their honeymoon which is believed to last for three weeks in an undisclosed location.
Once again, long live Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel – may they have many years of wedded bliss!
The wife of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned, attended the opening ceremony of the third United Nations Alliance of Civilization forum in Rio de Janiero, Brazil on Friday. She was one the speakers at the event, which included leaders and representatives from such countries as Turkey, Portugal and South Korea.
AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo
The Sheikha’s speech highlighted the importance of cultural diversity, the plight of the Palestinians and human rights. She began her speech by mentioning the last forum five years earlier.
“Five years after the Mallorca meeting, there is no doubt that we have gained a wealth of experience which have required us to examine the issues and to look forward rather than backwards,” Mozah said.
“I personally believe that this previous phase of dialogue was extremely necessary because it helped us to enhance our conviction that the objective of the Alliance of Civilizations was not and will never be to bridge the gap between the West and Islam nor to dispel the causes of tension between them. This phase as well, with all the fruitful dialogues it has known directed the course of our minds towards the real objective consisting of addressing global issues threatening the civilizations’ unity armed with the desire to develop a real understanding of our contemporary world which enhanced our conviction in the need to refuse preconceived judgments and ideas.”
The Sheikha then brought up cultural diversity and how it can bring about peace.
“Raising the subject of cultural diversity again under the umbrella of the Alliance of Civilizations stresses that there still exists uncertainties relating to the right for difference and for diversity,” Sheikha Mozah said. “Therefore, I believe in the need to work on promoting and strengthening the role of major regional groups to enable them to play an active role in ensuring peace and security.”
“First, I firmly believe that the Arab community with its human, natural and strategic potential can, along with other major groups from Asia and Latin America and others form a driving force to enhance the values of the Alliance of Civilizations. Such a step falls within the principles of the Alliance. Second, you will agree with me that in order for the culture of peace to be more than just a symbol and perhaps an illusion, we must build trust and repel the doubts by eradicating the causes of tension and injustice.”
At this point, Sheikha Mozah discussed the Palestinian people. “As a citizen who takes pride in her Arab identity, rich civilization and cultural heritage, I, like hundreds of millions of my people, cannot accept the suffering of our brothers under siege in Gaza and the West Bank, whose values and cultural heritage in Jerusalem are threatened,” she said.
Then Mozah addressed human rights and security, citing the conflicts in the Middle East since the early 1990s.
“Since the two Gulf wars scientists have been studying the long term effects of the use of depleted uranium on the environment and human population. And the region has witnessed a rise in the number of chronic and untreatable diseases since the first gulf war which has been connected to adverse effects on the environment in addition to birth defects,” she said.
Sheikha Mozah also pointed out that fighting illiteracy, the right to an education and combating diseases and environmental changes are the challenges facing humanity.
The day before, she was given a tour of Pavilion of the State of Qatar at the exhibition of the Alliance of Civilizations.
Next year, the fourth forum will be held in Mozah’s country in its capital, Doha.
Queen Elizabeth II spoke from the throne at the House of Lords Tuesday during the state opening of Parliament. Wearing her crown and regal robes, the Queen gave her speech in regards to Britain’s new but rare coalition government, which formed after this month’s narrow elections.
AP Photo/ Leon Neal/Pool
Among the many things she spoke about were cuts to public spending and changes to the country’s centuries-old political system.
“The first priority is to reduce the deficit and restore economic growth,” the monarch said, reading from a speech drafted by government officials. “Action will be taken to accelerate the reduction of the structural budget deficit. A new Office for Budget Responsibility will provide confidence in the management of the public finances.”
She also confirmed the unpopular 5.1-billion-pound ($7.3 billion) plan for national identity cards will not take place. An initial package of 6 billion pounds ($8.7 billion) in other spending cuts were mentioned.
“Measures will be brought forward to introduce fixed term Parliaments of five years,” the Queen said about political changes. “A Bill will be introduced for a referendum on the Alternative Vote system for the House of Commons (the lower house) and to create fewer and more equal sized constituencies.”
The way things are now, it is the Prime Minister who decides when to hold elections and end parliamentary sessions.
Also in the speech were about the United Kingdom’s new relations with the European Union – “My Government will introduce legislation to ensure that in future this Parliament and the British people have their say on any proposed transfer of powers to the European Union” - and changes to its immigration policy.
“My Government will limit the number of non-European Union economic migrants entering the United Kingdom, and end the detention of children for immigration purposes.”
On Monday, the Prince and Princess of Asturias inaugurated the first Spain-Mexico Forum at the Cervantes Institute with President Felipe Calderon and his wife, Margarita Zavala. It is meant for the leaders in economic, cultural, academic and business sectors to promote dialogue, exchange and progress between the two countries.
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During his opening speech, Crown Prince Felipe commented on the strong ties between Mexico and Spain, saying this forum would “enhance the cultural presence” of the two nations in the world and would “strengthen the common language,” adding that the bonds between the two lands are “indestructible” and are based on values of “peace, freedom, justice, democracy, welfare and development.”
Felipe also commented on the growing problem of organized crime in Mexico, and commended President Calderon on fighting it.”The willingness to continue working together is unbreakable. Only partners can meet the global challenges of this interdependent world, and be it climate change, the economic and financial crisis as well as combating drug trafficking and organized crime networks, Mr. President, and in this regard allow me to spend a heartfelt concern and sympathy for the difficult struggle that his country has in place.”
The Mexican President thanked the Crown Prince for his words and in his speech, agreed that the ties between his country and Spain were indeed “stronger than ever.”
Felipe and Letizia are the regent couple these days as King Juan Carlos recovers from lung surgery. He is expected to rest for another week.
Denmark’s Crown Prince Frederik was at the opening ceremony of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Copenhagen 2010 Conference Monday. The conference focused on proposing ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 26000, which aims to increase corporations’ awareness of human rights, respecting different cultures, and being environmentally conscious.
Frederik delivered the opening speech at the conference, and he started off by talking about climate change. “Five months ago, just a few miles from here, world leaders and other delegates were discussing how to deal with climate change issues at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP 15.
“Climate change is a global challenge of great importance. On my frequent travels to Greenland, I have seen how melting ice caps and glaciers are transforming the life of people there. The consequences of global warming are very apparent in Greenland but in essence the consequences are global and affect people all around the world, not least in the developing countries.”
The Crown Prince then went on to discuss the importance of being socially responsible. “I believe that social responsibility is a duty to everyone engaged in society – locally or globally. It is a duty to citizens, to businesses, to organizations.
“But it is not only a duty. Acting responsibly makes oneself stronger, it makes society stronger, and at the end of the day it makes the world stronger. Being responsible to others is an inherent necessity of being human, a social requirement of being a citizen, and – I believe – a great advantage when doing business,” said Frederik.
“One of the difficult parts of social responsibility is how to define it, and to agree on how to approach it. This difficult issue is what you are here in Copenhagen to discuss. And it is, of course, a task of great importance.
“To reach a common guidance standard is a giant step forward for social responsibility to take effect. It will provide common ways of defining the basic terms. It will also establish a common framework for implementing social responsibility efforts.”
“It is my hope that organizations, companies and governments around the world, from a local, regional and global perspective, will make use of the ISO 26000 guidance standard. Make use of it for the sake of taking care of people, for the sake of taking care of the planet we share, and for the sake of taking care of business.”
Crown Prince Frederik then ended off his speech by saying, “Creating a common guidance standard is a global challenge. I hope that businesses, organizations and governments will adopt ISO 26000 and make social responsible actions ‘business as usual.’”
To learn more about ISO Social Responsibility, click here
After weeks of building up the big event, Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II officially celebrated her 70th year Friday, and she did it with the love of her people, her family and other royals from across Europe.
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Unfortunately, a lot of royals were unable to make to the festivities because of the volcanic ash shutting down airports in northern Europe. But that didn’t stop everyone from having a good time.
Friday began with 27 cannon rumblings from a nearby naval base. Within hours, the royal family of Denmark stepped out onto the balcony of Amalienborg Palace to greet the thousands of well-wishers who waved their country’s flag and cheered for their Queen. Along with the family, the crowd also sang “Happy Birthday” to the monarch affectionately known as Daisy.
During this time, police had to block a small group of anti-monarchists from protesting at the Palace. They were kept back at over 300 feet.
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Meanwhile, Margrethe and her husband, Prince Henrik, then rode a carriage through the streets of Copenhagen as they traveled to a reception at City Hall. There, European royals had a birthday lunch which seemed to be a prologue to the gala dinner in the evening.
Not all of Europe’s royalty were there for the celebrations. With air flights canceled due to ash from an Icelandic volcano, some were not able to come to Copenhagen at all. Britain’s Prince Philip, the Crown Princely couple of Belgium, and the King and Queen of Spain were those not in attendance. Others, such as Dutch Queen Beatrix, Crown Prince Willem-Alexander and Crown Princess Maxima made it in via train just for Friday and had missed out on the performance gala Thursday night.
But luckily, they did not miss out on the dinner at Fredensborg Palace. Dressed to the nines, the royals gathered once again for the final part of Queen Margrethe’s birthday festivities. This time, her husband and eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik delivered moving speeches.
The Prince Consort went first. After welcoming the guests, he said in Danish, “Dear Daisy, 70 years is a milestone. The years that have elapsed, has filled you with a life experience that is influenced by your life’s work and your duty to follow it. But they also have filled you with joy and happiness – even if no people are living a perfect life. For aspects of life are manifold. But if you have lived as you can safely say that you have lived a rich life.
AP PHOTO/POLFOTO, Jens Dige
“You have contributed to your own life and greatly to mine, Frederik, Joachim, our grandchildren and our entire extended family. Yes, you have contributed more than that. You have too many lived a life that has inspired loving care, life energy, cheerfulness and artistic talent.
“Although you may begin to feel the age pass you from these sources of inspiration properties that blooms and evolves as never before.
“Your pleasant and amiable mind, combined with your life’s work, gives you an intuition and a compassion that touches people in your vicinity. For all those who live around you, every day enriched with joy and feeling of joy, happiness and admiration.”
With that, Prince Henrik gave a toast calling the Queen the light of his life.
REUTERS/Jens Norgaard Larsen/Scanpix Denmark
Next came Crown Prince Frederik, whom many thought Margrethe was going to abdicate the throne on this day for. Whether he was disappointed or relieved did not show on the Prince. Instead, he gave a sweet speech to his mother, and got a kiss from wife Crown Princess Mary as a result!
Even Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen spoke to the head of state in words the Queen described as “kind and beautiful.”
Finally, the birthday girl got her chance to speak. She gave a short and simple speech in which she thanked each of the speakers and gave them a few personal words. As for the rest of the guests, she said:
“What is 70 years? Many before you reach this far, but when the day comes, they are suddenly gone so quickly. Day has gone to day, year to year, many were the challenges, joys far more and far larger. Gratitude for everything that was me and part of everything I have experienced the greatest.”
With that, a toast was made and the night’s dinner began.
The past two days have seen one of the great gathering of royals of 2010. The next time this many royals would be at one place in such a glamorous environment with gowns, tuxedos and tiaras will be Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria’s wedding on June 19th – that is almost two months away!
Friday marks Queen Margrethe II’s 70 birthday, and Denmark is going to great lengths celebrating this milestone. Since the beginning of the year, there have been televised documentaries, books and exhibits honoring the Danish monarch. But Tuesday began the real festivities.
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The members of the royal family put on their best attire for a gala dinner at Christiansborg Palace, with 375 guests including members of parliament.
Queen Margrethe gave a speech at the start of the dinner, where she spoke humbly about the affectionate relationship she has had with her people.
“Tonight I have the opportunity to bring a greeting and a thank you to the entire country for everything I through many years has received the kindness and warm attention from all sides,” said the Queen.
“It means a lot to me that even the Faroe Islands and Greenland are represented here tonight. Well, there may be far from Torshavn or Nuuk, but for me the distance never seemed exemplary or the many miles incalculable,” she said, mentioning Denmark’s territories.
“It is my hope that this evening alternating spots and surprises may be for the benefit of all those who have the opportunity to follow in the event.”
The Queen then concluded with a toast of champagne.
Performances by Danish singers and some foreign acts, such as Cliff Richard took place. There was even a magic trick show by comedian Rune Klan.
Celebrations for Queen Margrethe will last until Friday. I will keep you updated on the days’ events!
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