Belgium's King Albert abdicates after 20-year reign

New Belgian King is crowned

Belgium's King Albert II has abdicated following a 20-year reign, handing over the throne to his son Philippe.

Belgium has a new monarch after King Albert handed the throne to his son Philippe to end his 20-year reign.

The transition of power at the top of the Belgium monarchy has taken place in Brussels as father makes way to son. Credit: REUTERS/Kevin Coombs

Queen Paola and King Albert II greeted crowds on their way to St Gudule Cathedral. Credit: REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol

Crown Princess Mathilde and Crown Prince Philippe will now assume the role of Queen and King. Credit: REUTERS/Michael Kooren

Last updated Sun 21 Jul 2013

Joe Biden vows to fight racial inequality with economic agenda

The Democratic presidential candidate may also have shown his cards on his choice of running mate.
Trump reverts to promoting unproven drug as coronavirus treatment

The US president also shared a post on Twitter accusing Dr Anthony Fauci of misleading the public over hydroxychloroquine.
What the papers say – July 29

Fears over an impending second wave of coronavirus dominates Wednesday’s front pages.