Dutch King Willem-Alexander inaugurated

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Following the abdication of Queen Beatrix, the new King of the Netherlands Willem-Alexander was officially inaugurated on Tuesday.
The 46-year-old King Willem-Alexander succeeded his mother Beatrix, who abdicated earlier on Tuesday during a ceremony at the Royal Palace.
The investiture of the new King took place during a joint session of the two houses of the parliament, the States-General at De Nieuwe Kerk church in Amsterdam. Under the Constitution, President of the Senate Fred de Graaf presided over the joint session.
After all the international guests, the members of the States-General, the royal family and now Princess Beatrix entered the church, the new King Willem-Alexander came in, wearing a tail coat with white tie under the royal mantle, accompanied by his wife Queen Maxima. His entrance was followed by the singing of the Dutch national anthem Wilhelmus.
Sitting on the throne Willem-Alexander gave a speech to the attendees in which he emphasized on the tradition of the Dutch monarchy as part of the Dutch parliamentary history for two hundred years and the "reciprocal responsibilities" of the people, the parliament and the King.
"Taking the oath confirms that indissoluble bond, enshrined in the constitution and the statute of the Kingdom," said Willem-Alexander.
Willem-Alexander also thanked the work of his mother, Princess Beatrix, who abdicated as Queen after 33 years. "I take your wisdom and warmth with me," the King said. "On behalf of the Dutch people I thank you for the wonderful years."
After a huge applause by the attendees for Beatrix, Willem-Alexander continued his speech.
"Every King gives his own interpretation to the post," the King added.
"Every person is different and we live in another time. The monarchy is serving to the people, not static but dynamic. It is a symbol of togetherness. I enter at a time when many people in the Kingdom feel insecure and vulnerable. The power lies in cooperation. I want to make connections, signal bonds and encourage what unites the Netherlands."
After his speech, Willem-Alexander swore to be faithful to the Dutch Constitution and to faithfully discharge the duties of his office.
In addition, the members of the two houses of parliament and the States of Aruba, Curacao and St Maarten were able to swear or affirm that they would uphold the doctrine that the ministers, and not the King, are responsible for acts of government and that they will uphold the rights of the monarchy.
Then President of the Senate De Graaf called the inauguration closed and shouted: "Long Live The King", followed by three times "Hurray" by the attendees. This procedure was repeated outside the church in front of the audience.
After the ceremony the King and his retinue proceeded to the Royal Palace Amsterdam for an official reception. The evening program contains a special boat trip on the river IJ in Amsterdam, with the new King and Queen.

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