Is Qaddafi willing to give the Libyan people the Monarchy back?

Australian political and defense analyst, Greg Copley, president of the International Strategic Studies Association (ISSA) in Washington, DC, says the Libyan dictator Muammar al-Qaddafi is quietly preparing to leave the scene and return the country to a monarchy.

"What Qaddafi is now starting to do, and he started this last year, he recognized that all of his sons, but particularly the one he designated as his heir, Saif al-Islam, was not going to cut it either with the Libyan people or with Qaddafi's own ideas for Libya," Copley explains according to OneNewNow.com.

"He's started to return property, which belonged to the late King Idris, back to the designated heirs of the king," the ISSA president reports. "And basically, I think he's setting himself up to do what Franco did in Spain, which was to return the country to a constitutional monarch."

Muammar al-Qaddafi has led a putsch against King Idris es-Senussi I on 1st September 1969.


Libyan Crown Prince Mohammed es-Senoussi (47) has been living in London since 1988. He led demonstrations against Qaddafi's visits in Paris and Rome.

"Drowning in Royalism"

In August 2008 Fairfax media, owner of The Age, announced the sacking of 550 people – 390 in Australia, 160 in New Zealand, among them 90 journalists. The loss of staff has forced the editors to fill their columns with bought opinion pieces or with articles published overseas. The latest example is Ben Chu’s glossy view on “the hereditary principle”, which was first published on 19th January 2011 in The Independent, a British daily with an unashamedly pro-republican tendency. The Sunday Age’s supplement “Sunday Life” reprinted Ben Chu’s article on 6th February 2011 (nothing better to publish on Her Majesty's 59th Accession Day?) with minor alterations under the title “The born supremacy”:

We are drowning in royalism. First came the gush of national enthusiasm at the announcement of the impending nuptials of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Then we were drenched in critical acclaim and publicity for The King's Speech. By the time the royal wedding comes around in April, our heads will be well and truly under monarchist water.

On the first look, it has its charm, to write an article on royalism, but I am afraid Ben Chu’s problem was, he could not find an explanation for “royalism” in Wikipedia. Because had he found a proper explanation of royalism he would never have ended with “celebrity dynasties”. The French term “royalisme” is quite straight forward:

“Royalism” is a political idea that praises or supports the kingdom, which means a political regime in which the head of the nation bears the title of king or queen, very often hereditary. It is often mixed up with “monarchism”, because there are monarchies that are not royal (i.e. imperial, princely, grand ducal etc. See also the opposite of democracy, and there exist also constitutional monarchies, especially in Europe (UK and Spain etc.). [“Royalism”] opposes republicanism.

Le royalisme est une idée politique qui prône ou soutient la royauté, c’est-à-dire un régime politique dans lequel le chef d'une nation porte le titre de roi ou de reine, le plus souvent héréditaire. Il est souvent confondu avec le monarchisme, alors qu'il existe des monarchies non royales (impériales, princières, grand-ducales...), voire entendu comme le contraire de la démocratie, alors qu'il existe des monarchies constitutionnelles, notamment en Europe (Espagne, Royaume-Uni...). Elle s'oppose au républicanisme.

From this explanation it is quite obvious that Ben Chu could not have been drowning in royalism. He may have suffered from an overdose of royalist memorabilia, newspaper articles and TV coverage, but that is in relation to our Royal Family, which Royalists may channel into royalism.

On the other hand, why is a Fairfax publication unable to find an Australian author to contemplate royalism, hereditary rules and – above all – family dynasties? Ben Chu’s opinion piece was published three weeks ago in The Independent, which may explain, why he did not give a thought on the Murdoch dynasty, whose grip on the Australian media is tighter than ever. Australia is flooded with Murdochism or Packerism and there is no rescue in sight.

His Majesty King Fouad II of Egypt has released a statement

In the name of Allah the benevolent and the merciful.

"We Ahmed Fouad II of Egypt, deeply saddened by the tragic events experienced by our beloved country, wish wholeheartedly for a swift solution to the present crisis.

"Our prayers accompany families who have suffered losses of dear ones.

"Our best wishes for a prompt recovery are extended to those who have been injured.

"We hope most sincerely that these unfortunate victims will be truly the last and that there will be no more bloodshed.

"Let us hope that the whole Nation and its people will recover peace and well being and take the path of democracy. Social and economic development can only come through peaceful dialogue.

"May Allah protect my beloved Egypt and the Egyptian people."

His Majesty, Fu'ād II, King of Egypt and the Sudan – Aḥmad Fu'ād (Arabic: الملك أحمد فؤاد الثاني Aḥmad Fu'ād) – was born on 16th January 1952. He ascended the throne on 26th July 1952 upon the abdication of his father, His Majesty King Fārūq I, who was forced by the putsch of army officers to leave the country. His Majesty, King Fu'ad II reigned for less than a year until 18th June 1953, when Egypt was declared a republic and he joined the rest of his family in exile in Switzerland, where he has continued to live to this day.

"William will be king of Australia - I certainly wouldn't bet against it"

Boris Johnson was given the honour to be reprinted by The Age today: Even Aussies love the Queen, it’s in the blood. It caused a stir in the comments section here and in the UK, where the Mayor of London’s article was first published in The Daily Telegraph on 30th January 2011.

Just read it for yourself and enjoy the slightly polemic language. About 20 years ago Boris Johnson had a bet with “a vaguely Left-wing Aussie professor“ that the Queen would still be the Australian head of state in – “and I paused, trying to think of a date so far in the future as to make the bet seem fair - the year 2000”. As we all know, the Australian Monarchy was re-affirmed in the 1999 referendum and Boris Johnson looks for the $100 the “vaguely Left-wing Aussie professor“ owes him. Does he claim interest?

Boris Johnson: "As for whether William will be king of Australia - I certainly wouldn't bet against it."

The Prince and A Gentleman

Here's a letter to the editor of The Age in response to yesterdays' attack on Prince Charles:

Prince of a man
IT WAS interesting to read Michael Shmith's gently ironic comment on Prince Charles's Australia Day remarks to an audience at Australia House in London (MelbourneLife, 31/1). It may be that there is a certain whimsy about the image that the Prince of Wales presents, but anyone who watched (as I did) his masterly delivery of the David Dimbleby lecture in 2009, could not fail to be impressed with his grasp of his subject (climate change) and with the wit and erudition he brought to such a vexed question. In any event, is it not some comfort to have, as our putative head of state, a man of humility and self-deprecating humour? A brief glimpse at the murderous regimes around the world reminds us of our good fortune in having a robust democracy supported and informed by a benign titular head.

David Morgan, Ivanhoe

The Prince and Mr Shmith

The Age would not be The Age, if not some editorial hack would turn up to discredit a pleasant event. The hack is Michael Shmith, whom The Age styled as “a staff writer”, but who was until recently a senior editor of The Age, and the event was The Prince of Wales‘ and The Duchess of Cornwall‘s visit of the Australian High Commission in London to mark Australia Day and pay tribute to those who had lost their lives in the Queensland floods.

"Thank heaven we can still make Charles chuckle at our character-building ways“, remarked Michael Shmith in today's Age, only to continue “the legendary regal wit of the-prince-who-really-wants-to-be-Neddy-Seagoon-but-no-one-has-the-courage-to-tell-him-he-isn't was well on display, attracting (according to The Age correspondent) ‘roars of laughter and an ovation from the gathering’

"'If you want to develop character, go to Australia.' This remark might have thrilled a room of 500 guests who thought the Prince of Wales was funnier than Mr Bean (there are points in common, after all), but I found it quaint,“ claimed Michael Shmith.

Michael Shmith loves to point out, that he is something of a "royal expert", when it comes to royal protocol:

"... I saw, when covering the Queen’s Australia tour five years ago..."

"... I once saw the late Princess Margaret informally mingling ..."

"... I remember a reception in Perth six years ago, when the prince [Charles] spoke wistfully.“

His article contained barely 670 words, but he could fiddle in three royal encounters. What a sacrifice this republican journalist must have endured, that he remembered them so well!

Michael Shmith could be a nice man in real life – his dislike for the Australian Royal Family is his personal choice. He should be spared to write on them. Nobody would ask a journalist who hates football, to cover sport events. And someone who finds tennis boring, would never be sent to report on a tournament. The same goes for the arts, museums or religious festivals - why send someone there, when he or she only suffers while writing on the matter? Only when it comes to royal events, The Age seems to be unable to find anyone among their staff and/or free lance writers who enjoys the royal pomp and cirstumances. Is among The Age's editorial staff not a single journalist who is able or willing to write an article or a report that is not part of a smear campaign?

Poor journalism, really poor journalism.

PS. It seems, the editorial staff is poor on foreign language skills. Why did no-one point out to Mr. Shmith that the equivalent of a "pommy bastard" used by rude French people on Germans would be "boches" and not "Bosch". Monsieur, redoublez la classe!

Prince Charles marked Australia Day
26th January 2011

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall visited the Australian High Commission in London on 26h January to mark Australia Day and pay tribute to those who had lost their lives in the Queensland floods.



The event, attended by members of the Australian community, commemorated those killed in the natural disaster and recognised the efforts of the emergency services and the public who helped save lives, homes and businesses.

In a speech The Prince told the guests Australians had "shown such amazing ability to survive, endure and somehow make jokes about the horror that everybody's facing".

His Royal Highness also told the invited audience of leading Australians how in 1966 he spent around six months in their country and developed a "huge affection" for the nation.

The Prince spent two terms as an exchange student at Timbertop, a remote outpost of the Geelong Church of England Grammar School in Melbourne, Australia.

He then made them laugh when he said: "I've been through my fair share of being called a 'pommie bastard' - by God it was good for the character.

"If you want to develop character go to Australia."


The Prince went on to say how livestock farmers were showing "unbelievable courage and resilience in the face of all these disasters".

He added: "The emergency services - we know how incredible they are when these disasters occur.

"We know also, just how much people in communities are helping each other. Suddenly adversity produces extraordinary generosity of spirit and people working together in a way perhaps hadn't quite happened before."

Australia's flood crisis began with record rains in November that left huge parts of the state of Queensland under water, killing 30 people.

The natural disaster also damaged or destroyed 30,000 homes and businesses and caused at least £1.9 billion in damage to crops and lost coal exports.

The state capital and the country's third-largest city, Brisbane, was swamped for days. The flood waters are now affecting parts of Victoria.

The Duchess is greeted by Australian writer Kathy Lette at a reception held at Australia House, the Australian High Commission in London.

Hosting the evening was Australia's High Commissioner John Dauth, and among the guests was Australian writer Kathy Lette who shared a joke with The Duchess and said afterwards: "I warned her that she was in a room full of convicts - the 'creme de la crim'."

T r u e

This cartoon appeared in The Age today to ridicule the constitutional framework of Australia – but the RadicalRoyalist rather likes the idea.

More Australian stamps of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia can be found here.

The Age: This year's republican parrot talk

On Australia Day The Age put up a united front against the Constitution, the Australian flag and first of all against the Australian Monarchy. Actually, everything seems to be a repeat from previous years.

As a commentator remarked: These has-beens say the same thing every Australia Day and quite frankly it is boring. Most Australians don't care enough to change to bother talking about it. Do you just republish the same newspaper every Australia Day so you can have a day off too.

Peter Gebhardt asked for “independence from the regal pantomime in England”.

John Huxley collected quotes from a dozen former Australians of the Year, among them Harold Scruby, who founded Ausflag in 1981, who had said: “We believe the time has come to embrace a flag worthy of our sovereign, independent, mature, egalitarian nation; our own flag."

The most common, very, very common was Larissa Behrendt, professor of law at the University of Technology, Sydney, chairwoman of the Bangarra Dance Theatre and 2011 NSW Australian of the Year, who came up with this all too familiar slogan: “Becoming a republic is inevitable and it's time to rekindle the debate.” You wouldn’t believe the originality.

Worst of all is today's editorial in The Age: "The last national leader who accepted the challenge was Paul Keating, and when he left office, nearly 60 per cent of Australians supported a republic.” The Age might be the only one in Australia regretting Paul Keating has disappeared from the political arena.

In view of the recent opinion polls mentioned below The Age appears like an Australian version of The Pravda with its republican rants, that left no space for a single pro-Monarchist article on Australia Day. Don't they fear the Australians might get an overdose of the same old republican propaganda that was published on other occasions? May this empire of evil speaking collapse soon.

In 2010, 52 per cent favoured the Constitutional Monarchy for Australia rather than “a” republic. The Age on 22nd December 2010: A total of 52 per cent think the nation should remain a monarchy.

And on 28th August 2010:
Australian support for the country becoming a republic is at its lowest level since 1994.

The RadicalRoyalist’s previous responses to The Age’s republicanism on Australia Day reply to all the allegations published today and can be read here from 2007 and here from 2009.

Illegitimate!

When it comes to shallow journalism, The Age is always an exemplary model, because it never fails when you need it to demonstrate this thesis. Today’s headline President wins outright in Portugal just stated, that the incumbent Anibal Cavaco Silva “grabbed more than the 50 per cent of the vote needed to win outright”. The Socialist Manuel Alegre came second with 19.75 per cent.

Was that it? Another triumph of republican democracy? You could think so if you just read The Age.

The Portuguese media tell a complete different story. In reality the Portuguese Monarchists were jubilant, because they had called for a boycott of the presidential elections, which proved to be successful. Only 46.62 per cent of those entitled to vote bothered to go to the polls: 5,139,583 out of 9,631,222 registered voters stayed away from the polling booths. Among the 4,490,147 voters, 4.26 per cent or 191,170 cast a blank vote another 86,545 or 1.93 per cent cast an invalid vote. In the end, a mere 40.4 per cent wanted to have a say in who should be Portugal's president - 59.6 per cent could not care less about the republic's highest representative.

So, let’s examine The Age’s news item: Mr Cavaco Silva won outright? He received 2,230,240 votes, which represent only 23.16 per cent of the electorate. Compared with the last presidential election in 2006 Mr Cavaco Silva lost 526,372 vote. His main rival, the Socialist Manuel Alegre did not fare much better: He lost 294,591 votes (down from 1,126,612 to 832,021) compared to 2006.

Portuguese Monarchists were delighted about the result of this presidential election: “Portuguese say NO to the republic" (PORTUGUESES DIZEM NÃO À REPÚBLICA) was one of the headlines.

Before the elections, the Portuguese had been called to “de-republic” Portugal (NESTE DOMINGO, VAMOS DESREPUBLICANIZAR PORTUGAL) and Monarchists were shown how to vote invalid by writing in “I want a King!

So, what The Age loved to call an outright win may be the beginning of the long end of the Portuguese republic. Long live the King! Viva o Rei! Viva Portugal Real!

Prince Georg Friedrich of Prussia announced his engagement

German Monarchists had anxiously waited for this news. His Imperial Highness, Prince Georg Friedrich of Prussia (*10th June 1976), announced his engagement with Her Serene Highness, Princess Sophie of Isenburg (*7th March 1978), daughter of T.S.H. Prince Franz Alexander and Christine of Isenburg.

H.I.H. Prince Georg Friedrich succeeded his grandfather, H.I.H. Prince Louis Ferdinand of Prussia, on 25th September 1994 as head of Germany's Imperial Family.

Crown Princess Mary and Prince Charles send messages to the Queensland flood victims



HRH Crown Princess Mary of Denmark gave birth to two healthy children - soon called "Little Boy" and "Little Girl" - at Rigshospitalet on 8th January 2011.

TRH Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary left the clinic on 14th January and were greeted with cheering Royalists.

Australian media people asked the Australian born Danish Crown Princess about her reaction to the floods in Queensland. After noticing her concern, Channel 10 turned "to our Royal" and broadcast HRH Prince Charles' message to the Queensland flood victims.


The Prince of Wales said the floods in Australia were "almost impossible to imagine" as he made a donation to the relief efforts.

He also paid tribute to the work of the Emergency Services and the Armed Forces in Brisbane.

The private donation is to the Queensland Premier's Flood Relief Appeal.

Speaking at his Scottish residence, Birkhall, The Prince told the BBC: "So many of us here in this country wanted to offer our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in this appalling tragedy. We’ve all been watching with mounting dismay and concern the appalling nature of these floods.

"I realise only too well that so much is dependant on the actions of the state, the emergency services, the armed forces, the Queensland Police, who in so many ways I know have made a fantastic difference to people's lives in these sort of disasters.

"I realise only too well - we all do - that the aftermath, the clean-up, the reconstruction, all this effort is going to be vast and I'm so glad to hear that the Queensland fund has been set up to which I'm only too happy and proud to contribute something."

The donation follows one by the Queen a day before.

Iranian terror sentence against human rights lawyer

Mohammad Reza Ali Zamani (37) and Arash Rahmanipour (19) were hanged on 28th January 2010 for the capital crime of Mohareb, or "taking up arms against God," which was based on their membership in the pro-Royalist group, Anjoman-e Padeshahi-e Iran.

As The Los Angeles Times reports today Arash Rahmanipour's lawyer, Nasrin Sotoudeh, was sentenced to eleven years in prison. The L.A. Times: "She aroused the ire of the judiciary when she spoke out about the secret execution of one of her clients, who was convicted of belonging to an outlawed monarchist group and hanged before dawn Jan. 28, 2010, without Sotoudeh's knowledge".

Last Sunday, Nasrin Sotoudeh was convicted of acting against national security and failing to wear the Islamic head scarf, was sentenced to eleven years in prison and banned from practicing law or traveling for 20 years.

The human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh was arrested and placed in solitary confinement in September and has been tortured, according to the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran and Sotoudeh's family

Amnesty International's British director, Kate Allen, called her a prisoner of conscience. Five years of Sotoudeh's sentence were for being a member of an outlawed human rights group, even though she wasn't, Allen said.

A message from The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall to The Prime Minister of Australia about the flooding in Queensland


Clive Alderton, Private Secretary for Commonwealth and Foreign Affairs to the office of The Prime Minister of Australia: "The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall have been deeply moved by news of the flooding in Queensland. The Prince of Wales has asked if you could kindly arrange for the following message to be delivered to the Prime Minister as soon as possible, please."

The message from Their Royal Highnesses:

"My wife and I have been horrified by reports of the terrible flooding in Queensland. The scale of the disaster all but defies belief and, on behalf of us both, I just wanted you to know how much our hearts go out to the hundreds of thousands of people whose lives and property have been affected. I also wanted to say how enormously impressed we have been by what is, clearly, outstanding combined work of the military, emergency services, Federal and State authorities in ensuring that people are evacuated to places of safety.

As we all mark the start of a New Year I can only pray that the worst of the flooding is over and send you every possible good wish as you work for the recovery of the many communities involved."

Another victim of Iran's Theocratic Republic:
H.I.H. Prince Alireza Pahlavi

This news from the website of His Imperial Majesty Shahanshah Reza II of Iran shocked Monarchists worldwide:

It is with immense grief that we would like to inform our compatriots of the passing of Prince Alireza Pahlavi.


Like millions of young Iranians, he too was deeply disturbed by all the ills fallen upon his beloved homeland, as well as carrying the burden of losing a father and a sister in his young life.

Although he struggled for years to overcome his sorrow, he finally succumbed, and during the night of the 4th of January 2011, in his Boston residence, took his own life, plunging his family and friends into great sorrow.

Once again, we are joined with mothers, father and relatives of so many victims of these dark times for our country.

Born in Tehran on 28th July 1966, His Imperial Highness Prince Alireza attended schools in Iran before traveling to the United States in 1979 during the Iranian revolution. He obtained a B.A. from Princeton University in 1984 and a masters degree from Columbia University in 1992 and attended Harvard University in pursuit of a Ph. D. in Ancient Iranian Studies.

In June 2001, the Prince's sister, Her Imperial Highness Princess Leila Pahlavi, also committed suicide.


Her Imperial Highness Princess Leila's tomb in Paris.

While committing suicide is a very personal decision it can be assumed that the constant exile from their homeland Iran and being under death threats from the Iranian terror regime, which has killed so many exiled Iranians, may have been too much to bear for the two members of the Imperial Family.

R.I.P.

His Imperial Majesty at a press conference announcing His brother's death.

The Queen of Australia's Message to Queensland Flood Victims

Her Majesty the Queen of Australia has sent a message to the Governor of Queensland, H.E. Penelope Wensley, expressing concern over the extensive flooding in Queensland and sending her sympathies to those affected.


The message reads: "I have been following with great concern over the last few days the news of the devastating floods in Queensland. Please extend my sincere sympathies to all the people whose communities and livelihoods have been so badly damaged in this disaster."

Republicans pin their hopes on the law of succession
When The Age yesterday published Margaret Fitzherbert’s serious and non-polemic thoughts on an overhaul of the succession laws to the British throne, nasty comments could be expected. And indeed, among of the 21 comments online there were the usual stupid remarks(“I'm not sure why we're even wasting time thinking about the succession to the British throne, when we're set to become a republic..."). However, the printed edition today contained only one letter to the editor. It came from the usual suspect: Barry Everingham, Malvern. “This is offensive in egalitarian Australia.” And so on and so on ...

That’s the same man, who on 3rd December 2007 published a Republican call to arms, which, much to his chagrin, was equally ignored as were his other attacks on the Australian Monarchy, for which he usually chooses Murdoch’s tabloid papers.

Reader’s reaction: The Age just doesn’t get it when it comes to the Queen

Tim Elliott considered it funny when last week he ridiculed The Queen’s Christmas message in a “pre”-review published in The Age’s Green Guide (=TV guide): “She switches on, tunes in and says pretty much exactly what she has said for the past 50 years.”

This week’s edition of the Green Guide published two responses:

Monarch’s moving message
Tim Elliott (Critic’s view, Saturday 23rd December) could not have been more wrong when he predicted the Queen’s message would be another boring round-up of the past year. Instead, the message described and encouraged sport as a force for peace and a stronger community.
Bryan F., Nyora

Loyal subject
You media people just don’t get it when it comes to the Queen. A lot of us look foward to the Queen’s message on Christmas Day and we find your snide remarks offensive.
Garry K., Richmond

For goodness sake, he’s the King

The Indian occupation of Sikkim is an ongoing violation of international rights.
In reaction to a previous posting the RadicalRoyalist received a testimonial from a former fellow student of Prince Wangchuk Tenzing Namgyal (*1st April 1953), second son of the 12th Chogyal of Sikkim, Palden Thondup Namgyal (+ 29th January 1982). He was crowned as Sikkim's 13th king after his elder brother, Crown Prince Tenzing Namgyal was killed in a road "accident" on 11th March 1978.

David from London wrote: "I have read much about the political situation in Sikkim, especially at the time the 11th Chogyal was dealing with the Nepalese, the Indians and the Chinese. It certainly is a tragic story, after so many centuries of the monarchy. It would be very interesting to get the perspective of the 13th Chogyal on the situation – although I don’t suppose much will change now.

A small story about Wangchuk that may amuse you:"

He [Prince Wangchuk] used to accompany a small group of us to the pub at lunchtimes. He was never a big drinker, but used to participate in the banter, and enjoy the company.

One day I asked him where he came from - he replied:

“Sikkim – it’s a small country in the Himalayas, between Bhutan and Nepal”.

I then asked, “So why are you here in London, Wangchuk?”

“Oh, my father thought it would be a good idea for me to get a British education”.

My next question was: “So what does your father do in Sikkim, Wangchuk?”

“Oh, he’s in the government.”

“So what does he do in the government, Wangchuk?”

“Oh, he’s quite senior actually...”

“Well, how senior, Wangchuk?”

“Well, really quite senior.”

“Come on, Wangchuk – what does he do??”

“Oh for goodness sake, he’s the King, OK?!”

Stunned silence ensued, followed by an animated conversation about the political situation, and how unhappy his father was...

Wangchuk was always the most charming chap, although quite self effacing. I enjoyed his company immensely.

Sikkim's Royal Family, Prince Wangchuk is second from the right(with spectacles).

Royal Christmas Messages 2010

Her Majesty Queen Beatrix I of the Netherlands


Christmas Speech 2010
The song just sung, the first words read: "That is from the world's dark clouds, a light upon light absorbed." It is the light of Jesus' birth. His arrival on earth and the way he has gone for focusing on what gives life meaning and value. Christmas inspires reflect on what we find important. These are days of reflection on questions which we want to give attention to everything that we value for ourselves, each other and a future in which we can believe.

Every person needs a safe place and a life in harmony with others, together we are part of a society. Therefore we must ensure the base remains strong and balanced proportions. Fear of change leads to vague unrest and uncertainty about the future. Then comes the social fabric under tension. When people no longer recognize the familiar, distrust grows. But patience, respect and solidarity can counterbalance. It comes down to social solidarity. The challenge is always to each other in solving problems. Anyone who feels participant, is also strengthened in the sense of self.

Anyone who wishes to contribute to understanding and trust must be prepared to confront their own prejudices and his actions to assess the consequences for other people and the consequences for society as a whole. Each community has its roots in social awareness and responsibility takes over and over again. Humanity, compassion and solidarity are forces that bind and offer support in difficult times.

Support is also sought in personal life. In the power of people's convictions can find inner security. But when the waves are high in life takes courage to go to hold on to principles. Against the tide comes down to perseverance.

Stories from World War II, we know impressive examples of personal courage, when people themselves are not considered brave, but stood for their principles. Their choice had serious consequences for others and for themselves. Despite fear and despair she felt after all the strength to remain true to their faith in human solidarity.

That world of war, thankfully, long gone. In the narrative history of younger generations, therefore, play a role in other examples. Again, some people - far away and sometimes approaches - taking action where injustice prevails. There is still need courage to stay strong and brave opposition. We too may be asking yourself: where do we stand when it comes to justice?

The conscience is the touchstone that determines the choice. By working from principles to deal with good and evil is one's conscience is formed from childhood. Therein lies the basis of personal conviction and perseverance. Those who own choices must be addressed not only to themselves but also justify to others.

Every day we notice that on assumptions and expectations of the public interest differences of opinion. The danger exists that the joint is concealed and differences are magnified. Then walls of alleged contradictions raised and hardened positions. But it is important to seek what unites and to encourage one another.

Divergent views together of course with an open society. We can not deny the differences, but they see it as a starting point for social dialogue. It is not necessary to persuade each other to endure. That is the basis of mutual respect.

We also find encouragement in the sharing of values which have been shaped over the centuries. These are recognizable in many places where people find themselves together peacefully and work together. Traditionally this is based on tolerance, diligence and helpfulness. These principles are essential today. Treat others as you want them to treat you. Thus, Jesus is the famous golden rule - what you do not want done to yourself that even a non - formulated positively.

With the processes that govern human life we are all involved. In many respects we are linked. By focusing on a common perspective, we try to overcome fear and suspicion and a good balance between 'us' and 'them'. The message of faith, hope and love Christmas gives us inspiration and encouragement.

I wish you all a blessed Christmas to.

Beatrix R

-----------------------------------------------------------

His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain



¡Buenas noches!
Quiero que mis primeras palabras sean para transmitir de corazón a todos los españoles mis mejores deseos de paz, prosperidad y felicidad en estas Fiestas Navideñas y para el Año Nuevo 2011.

Llegamos al final de un año difícil y complejo, marcado por una crisis económica, en España y en otros países, más larga e intensa de lo esperado. En nuestro caso ha puesto de manifiesto desequilibrios y deficiencias estructurales que hemos de resolver juntos con eficacia y prontitud.

Lo más doloroso es que ha golpeado a tantos hombres y mujeres que han sufrido -en su propia carne o en sus familias- la pérdida de empleos. Los parados concentran nuestras preocupaciones; son una prioridad insoslayable. La sociedad española no puede dejar que, especialmente, tantos jóvenes carezcan por más tiempo de un trabajo.

Pienso asimismo en quienes han tenido que cerrar comercios, talleres o negocios. En todas las personas que han asumido grandes sacrificios y esfuerzos a lo largo de este año: trabajadores asalariados, autónomos, profesionales, empresarios, pensionistas o funcionarios. Todos ellos merecen nuestro más amplio respaldo. Sus múltiples desvelos diarios y los de millones de familias, cuentan con nuestra mayor gratitud pues contribuyen al bien de todos.

La crisis ha requerido la adopción de importantes decisiones por parte de nuestros poderes e instituciones públicas a todos los niveles. A escala europea ha exigido concertar nuevas iniciativas. Pese a ciertos signos alentadores, todavía no se ha logrado una plena estabilización y recuperación internacional.

Es preciso seguir adelante con empeño, ganar la batalla al paro con decisión, constancia y firmeza; mejorar en productividad y competitividad, en educación e innovación; y volver a situar a nuestra economía con visión de futuro en el pelotón de cabeza, manteniendo nuestra protección y cohesión social.

Sin un crecimiento adecuado no crearemos empleo. Y para crecer como necesitamos, debemos proseguir y abordar juntos las reformas necesarias, cumpliendo además nuestros compromisos en materia presupuestaria y de déficit. Se trata de modernizar nuestro modelo productivo y de generar mayor confianza para reactivar nuestra economía, proyectando al mundo nuevos ejemplos de vitalidad y de impulso como sociedad.

Pudimos salir con éxito de anteriores crisis económicas. Disponemos de las condiciones y de los instrumentos necesarios para lograrlo de nuevo.

Somos una gran Nación, orgullosa de su pluralidad y diversidad, integrada en la Unión Europea con la que estamos comprometidos y por la que siempre hemos apostado. Un país de personas laboriosas y creativas, con una juventud espléndida, un inmenso y variado patrimonio cultural, modernas infraestructuras y muchas empresas punteras a escala internacional. La misma España que ha sido capaz de progresar y de superar con éxito muchas pruebas.

No hemos llegado hasta aquí para dejarnos vencer por las dificultades, para renunciar a nuestras ambiciones de construir un país cada vez mejor.

Debemos desterrar el desánimo, levantar la cabeza, aunar esfuerzos y continuar la faena, conscientes de lo que somos, de lo que ya tenemos y de lo que podemos avanzar.

Los nuevos tiempos requieren grandes compromisos por parte de todos. Si queremos ganar el futuro, debemos mirar más allá, estimular ilusiones y fortalecer capacidades, sabiendo que juntos llegaremos siempre más lejos.

Por todo ello, para salir de la crisis y asegurar nuevos horizontes de prosperidad y de bienestar, necesitamos unidad, responsabilidad y solidaridad. Estos son los mejores aliados para vencer dificultades y alimentar nuestras esperanzas. Los mismos que han guiado a otros países.

Creo que la actual situación ha puesto de relieve lo evidente: de cómo le vaya a España depende cómo le vaya a cada uno de los españoles. Por eso, no caben actitudes individuales ni colectivas de indiferencia o de egoísmo, que a la postre nos dañan a todos.

Nada que valga la pena se consigue sin renuncias y sin entrega. Es preciso fomentar el ejercicio de grandes valores y virtudes como la voluntad de superación, el rigor, el sacrificio y la honradez. Valores y virtudes cuya ausencia no es ajena al origen de la crisis, y que son consustanciales a toda sociedad justa y equitativa.

En definitiva, debemos unir nuestras fuerzas para alcanzar nuevos logros colectivos, con confianza en nosotros mismos y en nuestro país, contando con la acción de nuestras instituciones en el marco de convivencia y estabilidad que asegura nuestra Constitución.

Todos, empezando por nuestros partidos políticos y agentes económicos y sociales, somos importantes para conjugar voluntades en esta dirección, con generosidad, sentido de Estado y pensando en el interés general.

Quiero reiterar esta noche que el terrorismo solo suscita condena y repudio en cuantos defendemos la libertad y la democracia. No nos debe faltar determinación para acabar con esta lacra. Honremos y arropemos con todo nuestro cariño y solidaridad a las víctimas de la violencia terrorista y a sus familias.

Por otro lado, continuemos prestando la máxima atención a los excluidos y marginados, trabajando por la igualdad de oportunidades y en apoyo de los discapacitados. Redoblemos asimismo esfuerzos para combatir las drogas y terminar con la inaceptable violencia de género. Y por supuesto, cuidemos más nuestro entorno natural.

Nos jugamos mucho a diario en el mundo complejo y competitivo en que vivimos. Por eso tenemos que defender el papel y los intereses de España en el plano internacional y mantener nuestros compromisos con la paz y el desarrollo de muchas naciones necesitadas. En este marco dirijo mi gratitud y afecto, a los miembros de nuestras Fuerzas Armadas y Cuerpos de Seguridad desplazados en otros países, que han sufrido la pérdida de compañeros que permanecen en nuestro recuerdo.

Pero el año 2010 nos deja también alegrías, realizaciones y esperanzas, incluidos numerosos triunfos inolvidables en la historia de nuestro deporte. ¡Estoy convencido de que 2011 nos aportará nuevos éxitos y avances en muchos campos!

He contado siempre, y muy especialmente este año, con el afecto de los españoles y con el activo apoyo del Príncipe de Asturias. Al expresar mi agradecimiento quiero, una vez más, asegurar que sigo y seguiré cumpliendo siempre con ilusión mis funciones constitucionales al servicio de España. Es sin duda mi deber, pero es también mi pasión.

Quiero terminar reiterando mi plena confianza en España y en nuestros ciudadanos. Confianza en nuestra capacidad y fortaleza para dejar a nuestros hijos y nietos un país cada vez mejor, con mayor prosperidad en cada pueblo, ciudad y Comunidad Autónoma. En suma, plena confianza en que seguiremos progresando.

¡Muy feliz Navidad y Año Nuevo 2011, en nombre propio y de mi Familia, a todos los españoles y a cuantos extranjeros viven con nosotros!

Juan Carlos R


King Juan Carlos Urges Unity Amid Economic Woes

King Juan Carlos said his countrymen must act with unity, responsibility and solidarity as Spain grapples with high unemployment and a large budget deficit and also called for determination in the struggle against terrorism.

In his traditional Christmas message, aired nationwide Friday on radio and television, the monarch said 2010 has been “a difficult and complex year marked by an economic crisis – in Spain and other countries – that has been longer and more intense than expected.”

In Spain’s case, the king said, the economic struggles “have exposed structural imbalances and deficiencies that we must work together to correct quickly and effectively.”

“What’s most painful is that the crisis has affected so many men and women who have suffered job losses – either personally or within their families. The unemployed are the focus of our concerns; they’re an unavoidable priority,” he said.

The 72-year-old king added that Spanish society “especially cannot allow so many young people to go more time without work.”

“The crisis has forced our public authorities and institutions at all levels to take important decisions,” the king said, adding that it is “necessary to forge ahead with conviction, win the battle against unemployment with determination, perseverance and resolution and to make improvements in terms of productivity and competitiveness, education and innovation.”

Juan Carlos was referring to recent moves by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero’s government aimed at boosting investment and job creation and calming fears that Spain may require an Ireland- or Greece-style bailout by the European Union and the IMF.

In May, the government pushed an austerity plan through Parliament that included a pay cut for public employees and a suspension of cost-of-living adjustments for most pensioners.

A bill to overhaul Spain’s pension system is due to be sent to Parliament early next year, while other moves aimed at reducing the budget deficit to 3 percent of GDP by 2013 from last year’s level of more than 11 percent include a hike in the tobacco tax and a plan to partially privatize the company that manages Spain’s airports.

The king stressed the need to reorient Spain’s economy with an eye on the future while “maintaining social protection and cohesion” and said the country must “modernize” its productive model.

Alluding to an unemployment rate of around 20 percent, the highest in the European Union, and a gross domestic product that stood still in the third quarter, the monarch also urged Spaniards to “banish despondency, lift up your heads, unite your efforts and continue the struggle, aware of what we are, of what we have and what we can still achieve.”

“These new times require a great commitment by all of you,” he said, stressing unity, responsibility and solidarity as necessary elements “for emerging from the crisis and ensuring new horizons of prosperity and well-being.”

“These are the best allies for overcoming difficulties and fueling our hopes,” he added.

The effects of the global recession were aggravated in Spain by the collapse of a long construction and property boom that made the country’s economy the envy of most of Madrid’s partners in the European Union.

Separately, the king also urged “determination in ending the scourge” of terrorism and called on Spaniards to “honor and show affection and solidarity with the victims of terrorist violence and their families.”

Basque terrorist group ETA has killed more than 800 people since 1968 in its campaign for an independent Basque nation in parts of northern Spain and southwestern France, while radical Muslims were responsible for Spain’s worst-ever terrorist incident: the March 11, 2004, bombings on four Madrid commuter trains that left nearly 200 dead and 1,800 injured.

Referring to the “excluded and marginalized,” the king stressed the importance of continuing to offer them “maximum attention” and urged his compatriots to continue working “for equality of opportunities and support for the disabled.”

“Let’s redouble our efforts to combat drugs and end unacceptable gender-related violence. And of course, let’s care for our natural environment.”

At the conclusion of his speech, the monarch reiterated his full confidence in Spain and its citizens as they strive to “leave our children and grandchildren with an even better country, with greater prosperity in every town, city and autonomous community.”

“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from me and my family to all Spaniards and the numerous foreigners who live among us,” Juan Carlos said.

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His Majesty King Albert II of the Belgians



Mes chers compatriotes,

En ce temps de Noël et de Nouvel An, je voudrais d’abord partager avec vous un motif de satisfaction. De l’opinion unanime de nos partenaires européens, la Présidence belge de l’Union européenne, pendant le second semestre de cette année, a été particulièrement réussie. Dans nombre de domaines très différents des progrès importants ont été réalisés. Je pense entre autres à la stratégie économique européenne, aux mesures pour éviter le retour des crises financières, au budget européen, aux réalisations en matière commerciale et diplomatique, aux relations entre l’Europe et l’Asie. De nombreux chefs d’Etat et de gouvernement ainsi que des dirigeants d’institutions européennes, m’ont fait part spontanément de leur admiration à ce sujet. Cela illustre bien les talents de notre pays lorsqu’il s’agit de rapprocher des points de vue en trouvant des compromis. Notre diversité nous aide dans ces domaines.

Et pourtant, cet art du compromis, il me semble qu’au sein de notre propre pays, nous l’avons quelque peu oublié ces dernières années. D’où ma préoccupation et ma ferme volonté de lancer un appel à tous nos responsables et à tous les citoyens.

Notre pays a l’occasion de se transformer en profondeur pour mieux répondre aux attentes de nombreux Belges, et pour affronter les défis à venir. Désormais, après plus de 6 mois de négociation tous les éléments se trouvent sur la table pour réaliser une réforme profonde de l’Etat. Il y aurait un important transfert de compétences aux Régions et Communautés, une autonomie et une responsabilisation beaucoup plus poussées des entités fédérées, y compris sur le plan fiscal, un refinancement de Bruxelles et le maintien d’une réelle solidarité au sein de notre pays. En même temps, il sera nécessaire d’assurer le financement dans la durée de l’Etat fédéral pour exercer les compétences et les obligations qu’il continuera à assumer vis-à-vis de tous les Belges, mais aussi sur le plan européen et dans le monde. Il faudra également inclure une solution pour BHV et définir des règles en matière d’éthique politique.

Il s’agit donc de trouver des compromis équilibrés qui tiennent compte des aspirations légitimes des uns et des autres. Dans un tel accord il ne doit pas y avoir de perdants. Nous devons trouver des solutions ou chacun est gagnant.

Dans la recherche de cet accord raisonnable il est évident que chaque partie devra faire des concessions. Chacun aura donc l’obligation de prendre ses responsabilités. Le moment est venu où le vrai courage consiste à chercher fermement le compromis qui rassemble, et non à exacerber les oppositions.

Si un tel accord se réalise, un nouveau gouvernement fédéral pourrait être constitué. Avec les entités fédérées, il sera à même de prendre des mesures nécessaires pour sauvegarder le bien- être de la population, et pour rétablir la confiance au sein du pays. C’est cela que tous nos concitoyens attendent.

Lorsque nous réussirons, car je suis convaincu que nous le pouvons, nous redeviendrons à nouveau un exemple d’entente, et un facteur d’unité dans un monde qui en a grandement besoin. Nous pourrons présenter l’image juste d’un pays qui parvient dans la paix, à se transformer profondément. Nos partenaires européens, et tous les autres pays, constateront que la Belgique demeure un Etat responsable auquel ils peuvent faire confiance.

Cet appel que je vous lance solennellement à tous, je l’adresse évidemment en premier lieu aux responsables politiques, mais aussi aux responsables économiques, sociaux, culturels et des médias. Tous, par nos actions, par notre comportement, nous devons avoir le courage d’être des artisans de paix.

C’est le souhait chaleureux, que la Reine et moi et toute notre famille vous adressons de tout cœur, en ces fêtes de Noël et de Nouvel An.

Wir alle müssen bei unseren Aktionen und unserem Vorgehen den Mut aufbringen Friedensstifter zu sein.

Das wünschen Ihnen zu diesen Weihnachts- und Neujahrsfeiern die Königin, ich selbst und unsere ganze Familie von Herzen.

Albert R

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His Majesty King Harald V of Norway

Kongens nyttårstale 2010



King Harald V touched on national pride and Norwegian prosperity in his annual address on New Year’s Eve, and the need to become better and “bigger.” He cautioned, however, against situations where personal dignity and self-worth can be challenged, not least in the case of foreigners trying to adjust to life in Norway. He spoke of how difficult it is to be an asylum seeker or immigrant in Norway, because they’re not always welcome in the workforce or community.

“Every single person has resources that can be used in our society, regardless of nationality, health, age or social factors,” King Harald said. He said Norway’s emerging “multi-cultural competence” must be put to use, because it will be “steadily more important for us in a smaller world.”

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His Royal Highness Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg


(version LU)
(version FR)

Léif Letzebuerger, léif Matbierger,
Wa mir haut op Hellgerowend op d’Joer zréckkucken, dann erënnere mir eis u vill schéi Momenter, ma och un eenzel vläicht méi schwéier Passagen. Ech hoffen, datt fir jidderee vun Iech déi positiv Evenementer iwwerweien.

Och wann dëst Joer munnech sozial, politesch a wirtschaftlech Problemer d’Aktualitéit markéiert hunn, gouf et dach a verschidde Secteure vun eiser Economie eng Reprise. Vill Leit hei am Land awer spieren nach ëmmer d’Auswierkungen vun der Kriis a si veronséchert. Heiheem wéi an der Welt gëtt dacks d’Fro gestallt: Wéi geet et virun?

Besonnech wëll ech haut un all déi Matbierger denken, déi ënner Aarmutt, Chômage a sozialer Ausgrenzung leiden an duerch schwéier Zäite ginn. Hinnen all gëllt et, grad och op Chrëschtdag, eng Hand ze reechen.

Zwou Froen, déi ech d’lescht Joer op dëser Plaz gestallt hunn, wéilt ech haut verdéiwen: "War eis Gesellschaft net vläicht ze vill vum séiere Profit geblennt? Hu mir eigentlech iwwerhaapt richteg un d’Zukunft geduecht?"

Eist Handelen, léif Matbierger, huet ëmmer mat eiser Fassong ze dinn, wéi mir mat eise Matmënschen ëmginn. Begéine mir hinne mat Respekt, sou seet dat vill iwwer eis selwer aus. Wann awer séiere Profit eist Zil ass an eleng d’Geld zielt, da verléiere mir d’Uechtung virun deem Aneren a virun der Gesellschaft.

Eist Schaffen, a klenge wéi a groussen Actiounen, huet ëmmer eng sozial an eng ethesch Dimensioun. Wirtschaftlecht Handelen ass a bleift en Deel vum gesellschaftleche Handelen. Emmer dann, wann d’Economie an d’Finanzwelt vun der Gesellschaft a vun der Politik lassgekoppelt agéieren, musse mer eis an Uecht huelen.

Et gëtt kee Grond, d’Economie vun der Ethik lasszeléisen, schreift den indesche Nobelpreisdréier Amartya Sen. "L’économie moderne s’est trouvée considérablement appauvrie par la distance qui a éloigné l’économie de l’éthique." D’Wirtschaft ass fir de Mënsch do, a net de Mënsch fir d’Wirtschaft. Dofir musse mir op zwou grouss Froen eng Äntwert fannen: Wéi soll ee liewen? Wéi eng Gesellschaft wëlle mir?

Wéi soll ee liewen? Et ass ze kuerz gegraff, mam Fanger op anerer ze weisen. Jidderee vun eis dréit Verantwortung. Jiddereen ass en Acteur a kann eis Gesellschaft, eis Economie an eis Emwëlt duerch säi perséinlecht Handelen positiv beaflossen. Emmer rëm iwwer séng eege "Façon de vivre" nozedenken, ass e ganz wichtegen Exercice. Verantwortung a Vertrauen ginn hei Hand an Hand.

Wéi eng Gesellschaft wëlle mir? Sécher wëlle mir all eng Gesellschaft, wou jidderee seng Plaz huet a wou et gerecht zougeet. Nëmme wann de Mënsch an Dignitéit liewen a schaffe kann, ass de soziale Fridden op Dauer garantéiert. Ech lueden dofir jidder eenzelnen an, bei all Striewe no Profit de "Bien commun" net aus den An ze verléieren an deenen eng Hand ze reechen, déi an Nout sinn.

Ech sinn iwwerzeegt, datt e neien Opschwong méiglech ass, deen eng wierklech Perspektiv a Sécherheet bidd. Dat verlaangt vun eis all en Emdenken, ma de positiven Impakt op eist Zesummeliewen sollt eis dat wäert sinn. An enger Zäit, wou eis sozial a wirtschaftlech Relatiounen ëmmer méi virtuell ginn, kritt d’Cohésion sociale, fir déi ech mech zanter zéng Joer asetzen, eng nei Bedeitung.

Léif Matbierger, vergiesse mer ni, datt et hei am Land formidabel Beispiller vu Matenaner a Solidaritéit ginn, och iwwer d’Grenzen eraus. Den Engagement vu ganz ville Bénévolen a Professionnellen am soziale Secteur zeechent eist Land aus. Doropper kënne mir houfreg sinn.

Bei eise soziale Visiten hei am Land erliewen d’Grande-Duchesse an ech ëmmer rëm mat wéi engem groussen Asaz vill Organisatiounen an öffentlech Servicer sech an den Déngscht vum Mënsch stellen. Glécklecherweis gi sech och ëmmer méi Entreprisen hirer sozialer Verantwortung bewosst. Och den Intressi un alternative Wirtschaftsformen hëllt zou. Ech denken hei un d’Economie sociale et solidaire, déi der Grande-Duchesse esou staark um Häerz leit. Ech félicitéieren all Acteure fir hieren Engagement an encouragéiere si, an dëser wichteger Richtung virun ze fueren.

Chers amis étrangers,
Lors de notre récente visite d'Etat au Portugal, la Grande-Duchesse et moi-même avons été très touchés par l'accueil chaleureux que ce merveilleux pays nous a réservé. Il témoigne des liens profonds qui unissent nos deux pays, notamment à travers la présence au Luxembourg de nombreux citoyens d'origine portugaise. Votre présence et celle de toutes les autres communautés est et reste indispensable pour le bien-être de notre société et doit nous encourager à œuvrer en commun pour un avenir prometteur.

Léif Lëtzebuerger,
Grad an dëser Zäit ass et wichteg, zesummen ze stoen, sou wéi d’Lëtzebuerger Vollék et schonn dacks a sénger Geschicht gemaach huet. De Wee aus dëser Kriis däerf net an d’Aarmutt féieren. Am Géigendeel, de Wee kann zu engem neien a méi responsable Matenaner an der Gesellschaft féieren, vun deem mir all profitéieren. Mir hunn eis Zukunft selwer an der Hand. Loosse mir dës Chance notzen.

Léif Matbierger,
Op Hellgerowend wënschen ech Iech all, och am Numm vun der Grande-Duchesse, vu méngem Papp, dem Grand-Duc Jean, a vun eise Kanner, e schéint Chrëschtfest an e glécklecht neit Joer.

Henri GD

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His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito of Japan


Emperor Akihito shared his impressions on this year's nationwide "missing centenarians" issue and other noteworthy events in a recent press conference held on the occasion of his 77th birthday on Dec. 23.

"It has now become evident that, among those elderly who were thought to be well and sound, there are some whose fate and whereabouts are unknown, which is most regrettable," the Emperor said, pointing to the issue as one of the news topics that struck him most.

Emperor Akihito also frankly talked about issues relating to his aging, saying, "I have become somewhat hard of hearing, so when I receive people, I ask those around me to tell this to them and to ask them to try to talk to me in a louder voice. When watching the news and other programs on television, I can understand what the announcers are saying but when it comes to listening to the other people's conversations on TV, I find myself often relying on subtitles."

The Emperor then continued, "It is my sincere hope that there will be further understanding of the needs of the elderly and that more and more attention will be paid to make buildings and towns better equipped to serve the needs of the elderly."

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His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden



Sverige Jultal 2010

Dear Swedes at home and abroad.

I want to wish everyone a happy Christmas.

When I look out the window here at the palace - this cold and snowy winter in 2010 - I see the National Museum by the snowstorm across the stream. It displays the exhibition "Master Art". It is one of the many manifestations of this year has been given to Bernadotte Jubilee.

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the Swedish parliament gathered in Örebro and chose Napoleon's Marshal Jean Baptiste Bernadotte as the new heir apparent. It was the beginning of the long period of peace which we have been lucky enough to experience ever since, a benefit that few other countries on earth to share with you. During the Oslo period as heir to the throne and later ruler was also the foundation for modern Sweden, including a new infrastructure, banking and education.

My family and I participated in the commemoration of the tronföljarvalet in Örebro this year. We also attended the celebrations in Helsingborg by 200-year memory when Jean Baptiste Bernadotte first landed on Swedish soil - a stormy day, on 20 October. We had well maybe no further luck with the weather, but it did not dampen the party atmosphere. I was especially glad that my cousin, Queen Margrethe of Denmark, also participated in the celebration.

Christmas is a time when we may pause for a while to gather with our loved ones. It is a time for socializing with family, relatives and friends. But we must also remember that there is anyone who has one or more to share Christmas joy with.

To all of you who are alone or ill this Christmas, I would make an especially warm greeting. It is my hope that you too can feel something of the joy of Christmas, and that next year will be a better and more joyful year for you. There lies a special responsibility on us as a Christmas can gather in fellowship with our loved ones. We must reach out and include them in our neighborhood who are not as fortunate. This is the Christmas message of love.

Christmas is also a time for reflection of the past year, and hopes for the new.

A big event for me and my family during the year was when our oldest daughter, and heir to the throne of Sweden, Crown Princess Victoria was ordained by his Daniel on June 19. It was a glorious day of celebration, and our joy was shared with all those hundreds of thousands who had gathered along the motorcade route and below the castle, and with all the millions who followed the wedding on television all over the country and abroad. I want to express my and my family's heartfelt thanks for all the appreciation and warmth that has come to Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel.

In my Christmas speech last year, I mentioned that the Queen and I intend to fulfill a dream for a long time, to create a forum to highlight children and young people in the world. The aim is to inspire and support the UN Children's Convention are complied with. Recently, also took the first World Child and Youth Forum held at the Royal Palace with more than 400 participants. This was met not only representatives of the various child welfare organizations, but also many children and adolescents. This particular dialogue between the generations is important - something that the Queen stressed in his opening speech.

Last spring, did Queen and a state visit to Brazil. I also visited China soon after the inauguration of the Shanghai World Expo, and Crown Princess and Prince Daniel was there last fall. We found that the Swedish pavilion did well among the 190 countries. There is great interest in China for what Sweden and the Swedish company stands for: quality, sustainable development, new technologies and innovations.

In Sweden we can for now rejoice in the strong economic growth. Exports are growing and employment has begun to increase. But we have reason to respect for those in the financial turmoil abroad and what it can get for the consequences.

Our planet is vulnerable. I tend to think of Earth as an apple - with the crust as thin as an apple peel.

How fragile, this shell is, we were reminded several times during the past year. Haiti was hit by an earthquake in which perhaps as many as 200,000 people died. During the year, there was also strong earthquakes in China, Turkey, and Mexico. Volcanic eruption in Iceland - when apple shell burst, so to speak - leading to a large part of air traffic in Europe had to be canceled due to the emission of ash.

We also damaged the earth's surface. Oil rig that exploded in the Gulf of Mexico resulted in a major oil spill, where oil continued to flow out for several months.

If the Earth is an apple, so is life on the planet - humans, animals and plants - as delicate as the dew on an apple that can be easily rub off on your sleeve. We must do everything to protect Earth's environment and promote sustainable development. We must succeed in reconciling the poor countries for economic development with the need for measures to ensure our common future on Earth.

Many were disappointed over the outcome of the UN environment meeting in Copenhagen last year. It is therefore encouraging that the recent meeting in Cancun in Mexico seems to have yielded results - results that point to a better future development, although it is far from binding international agreements.

These are urgent problems, for we are just more and more. The earth's population will already in 2050 to be three times as large as it is today. How can we get food, water and energy sufficient while creating a sustainable development that preserves the environment?

The answer to that question is better knowledge. A knowledge based on scientific facts. It is certainty in an age when more and more people imagine that astrology is a science.

This was the issues discussed when the ten royal academies gathered at the palace last month for another round of seminars in the series' crown of Knowledge ".

Yes, we can be pleased that Sweden is far ahead as a knowledge nation. The Swedish universities and colleges position themselves better in the annual, international comparisons. In Sweden, also creates several new internationally competitive research.

In Lund, built for example, two new international center for advanced materials research, MAX IV and ESS. Furthermore, it interacts KTH, Karolinska Institutet and Uppsala University in a resource center for large-scale research in molecular life sciences and medicine.

During the past year we have gained new insights into early human origins. A Swedish scientist, Svante Pääbo, have managed to map the genetic heritage of ours, long extinct, nearest relative, Neanderthals. By comparing this genome and our own, we have unprecedented insight into what makes us unique - for example, our qualified consciousness and intellect, and our developed social skills. Let us use these properties to the best of its ability to create a better world for all.

I will conclude with a few lines from the Queen Silvia's prayer book. It is a prayer written by Archbishop Anders Wejryd:

"Help us to cultivate the vitality you have in your creation,
So that we become managers rather than consumers,
Builder and not destructive "

With these words, I ask once again get to wish you a merry Christmas, and send you my best wishes for the New Year.

Carl XVI Gustaf R
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His Majesty King Michael I of Romania

Mesajul Majestății Sale Regelui Mihai I de Crăciun 2010


Români,

Pentru câteva minute, vă spun bun găsit din liniștea căminului nostru de la Săvârșin. Am trecut cu toții printr-un an greu, cu destule suferințe și nemulțumiri. Dar, în viața multora dintre noi au existat și motive de bucurie și speranță.

Felicit pe cei care au reușit performanțe economice, mai ales micii întreprinzători și companiile mijlocii. Felicit pe tineri și pe profesorii din universități, licee și școli, care au continuat munca lor importantă, în ciuda greutăților. Felicitări celor din agricultură, care au reușit să meargă mai departe, deși rămași fără resurse și încurajare. Felicit funcționarii publici, diplomații, militarii, oamenii de artă, pentru stăruința lor de a-și face datoria, deși puternic încercați de lipsa banilor și descurajați instituțional.

Sunt mâhnit pentru toate momentele prin care mamele, oamenii bătrâni și cei bolnavi sunt nevoiți să treacă.

România are nevoie de infrastructură și de instituții respectate. Agricultura nu este un domeniul al trecutului istoric, ci al viitorului. Școala este o piatră de temelie a societății. Universitățile răspund administrativ față de guvernare, dar au nevoie să fie libere din punct de vedere organizatoric și științific.

Regina și cu mine, alături de Familia noastră, am mers în orașele și comunele țării, încurajând profesii, inițiative, organizații și instituții. Am făcut în anul care se încheie multe vizite internaționale, în care am susținut interesele fundamentale ale României.

Suntem cu gândul la militarii români din teatrele de operații. Sunt mândru de sutele de mii de români aflați la lucru în străinătate, pentru o viață mai bună și mai demnă. Ei ajută mult familiile lor și România.

Toate guvernele europene au acum greutăți. Criza economică obligă la măsuri impopulare. Totuși, există multe feluri de a micșora asprimea consecințelor pentru populație. 2011 va fi poate ceva mai bun, dar vor exista dificultăți, drept pentru care țara trebuie să fie protejată.

Sper ca anul viitor să aducă respect și etică în instituții, simț al datoriei și altruism în viața publică. Valorile și competența ar trebui să fie criteriile noastre. Aveți încredere în democrație, în rostul instituțiilor publice și în regulile lor!

Așa să ne ajute Dumnezeu!

Mihai R

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His Royal Highness Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE - GREGORIAN CALENDAR 2010


On the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the day of great joy for all Christians, I wish the citizens of Serbia and people across the world who celebrate Christmas by the Gregorian calendar the very best wishes from my family and myself. May everyone enjoy peace, love and happiness.

My family joins me in wishing all of you a peaceful and Happy Christmas and a very Happy New Year 2011.

Peace on Earth and goodwill for all!

Christ is born!

Alexander

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Joyeux Noël à tous et toutes!



La princesse Philomena et le prince Gaston se joignent à moi pour souhaiter à chacun et chacune d'entre vous de fêter la Nativité la joie au cœur. En France et ailleurs dans le monde, nombreux sont ceux qui traversent de graves difficultés ou même subissent de lourdes épreuves. En cette nuit de grâce, sentons-nous profondément proches et solidaires les uns des autres – et entretenons la plus capétienne des vertus : l'espérance !

Joyeux Noël à tous et toutes!


Le Prince Jean de France, Duc de Vendôme

Merry Christmas - The Age style
Yesterday The Age had to report that 52 per cent of the Australians want their Monarchy to continue and today the same paper contained a Critic’s view on The Queen’s Christmas Message, which could not be nastier. Fortunately it’s not available online. Tim Elliott, who has the gift to know in advance what Her Majesty (permanently constantly referred to by the skilled reviewer as Her Royal Highness) will say, gives readers of The Age this advice:

“If you wish to see her saying it all again, then tune in. Alternatively, you could get much the same effect by reading a fortune cookie with an English accent.”

Sydneysider Tim Elliott successfully defended his reputation as a fierce republican journalist. Two years ago, when reviewing the documentary A Year With The Royal Family, he made this comment:

"The Queen, meanwhile, comes across as a cranky old sausage, bored with the ceaseless sycophancy and pointless appointments."

One could think, that the term “cranky old sausage” would also be appropriate for some republicans, especially in the journalistic field, but politeness bars us from calling a defeated adversary that.

The Queen's Christmas Message

Funny that
“A total of 52 per cent think the nation should remain a monarchy”, reported The Age today, but added in the bad old republican fashion: “Australia's fondness for the monarchy is on a knife-edge”.

Excuse me, did the republican mates not claim 80 per cent would back “a” republic? Or at least The Age used to say so.

The poll is published in Australian Women's Weekly, on sale 22nd December.