King Albert
Belgium's King Albert II is to abdicate.
The 79-year-old monarch has announced he intends to step down from the position in favour of his son, Crown Prince Philippe, on July 21, the country's National Day, because he is no longer healthy enough to carry out his royal engagements as he wishes to.
In a national televised address, he said: "I realise that my age and my health are no longer allowing me to carry out my duties as I would like to.
"Prince Philippe is well prepared to succeed me."
According to Belgian state TV, Albert - who would have marked his second decade on the throne in August - met the Belgian government's cabinet yesterday (03.07.13) to inform them of his decision.
His announcement comes shortly after his and Queen Paola of Belgium's 54th wedding anniversary.
Albert was sworn in as the sixth king of the country on August 9, 1993, following the death of his brother King Baudouin from heart failure at the age of 62. Baudouin had reigned for 42 years following his father's abdication in 1951.