Prince William: “Depth of Friendship” Between UK and Germany Won’t Fade Despite Brexit

  August 23, 2016 at 7:04 pm by

The Duke of Cambridge has paid a one-day visit to the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia today, where he attended a gala at Düsseldorf’s Tonhalle with Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Here, William gave a speech in which he spoke of the long-standing relationship between the United Kingdom and North Rhine-Westphalia, which was established 70 years ago by the British Military Government in the aftermath of World War Two. “Since that time, we have seen this Bundesland grow…into what is today the economic powerhouse of Germany and one of the most prosperous regions in Europe. The British military has been present at every stage during this remarkable evolution,” he said.

The Duke also used his speech to reiterate that the relationship between the two countries will not change despite the UK’s recent vote to leave the European Union: “In short, what began 70 years ago as a relationship of necessity between an occupying power and a region in ruin, is today a partnership of genuine friendship and of massive mutual benefit. This partnership will continue despite Britain’s recent decision to leave the European Union. The depth of our friendship with Germany and with North Rhine-Westphalia will not change. Bilaterally and internationally we will continue together to lead efforts to promote prosperity, security and stability in the world.”

Earlier, Prince William had attended a British Forces Germany military parade featuring soldiers from the 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade and a reception for the Brigade and their families.

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