King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands met with Danish journalists in preparation for his State Visit to Denmark next week. According to early reports in Danish media a wide range of topics was discussed, from Máxima's Catholic faith to the raising of the children and even the assurance that he and Máxima sleep together.
The King told Billed Bladet that he forms a good team with Máxima. They might have their own interests, but they work very good together, and complement each other and discuss a lot he said. Their children pick up some of the conversations and are aware that they live a life that is different from their classmates. The Dutch royal couple tries to shield them as much as possible from the public eye. The princesses need to first know themselves the King said, in order to be ready for a life in public.
Willem-Alexander is very much looking forward to the State Visit to his godmother. It is a special visit he said, the first to a European monarchy. He thinks as a 'junior' monarch he has lots to learn from an experienced hand like Queen Margrethe, who is 'one of the longest reigning monarchs'. She is a great example of a modern monarch, who has done a great deal for her country, Willem-Alexander told the visiting journalist at Noordeinde Palace.
His days are as busy as ever, and 24 hours are still not enough. He has less flexibility in setting his agenda, and travels less than before he became King in 2013. Queen Beatrix really prepared him well, and gave him a say in people being hired so that when he started he was surrounded by his own good team.
Willem-Alexander can still ask advice from his mother, something his friend Crown Prince Frederik will not be able to do when he comes to the throne. Denmark does not have the Dutch tradition of abdicating monarchs. When Frederik starts out, his mother will have passed away. © RB
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