New king's job to keep Flemish and Walloons united

Belgium's King Albert II abdicated yesterday in an emotional ceremony that cleared the way for his eldest son, Prince Philippe, to ascend the throne.

"Philippe, you have all the qualities of heart and intelligence to serve our country well in your new responsibilities," Albert said.

"You and your dear wife, Mathilde, have all of our trust."

Albert also paid tribute to his spouse, Queen Paola, thanking her for her support over his 20-year reign and sending her "a big kiss".

He later embraced his son, bringing tears to Mathilde's eyes.

The 79-year-old relinquished the throne in a concession to his age and health. It is the first time that a Belgian king has abdicated willingly in the 182-year history of the monarchy.

Philippe, 53, is the country's seventh king. His ascension will be formalised with an oath taken before parliament.

The father of four will swear to observe the Belgian constitution and "preserve national independence and the integrity of the territory".

The royal family is one of the few forces uniting the country's fractious Dutch-speaking Flemish and French-speaking Walloon communities.

Albert this week has repeatedly urged the country to stay united.

"My last recommendation to all of you assembled here is to work without rest on the cohesion of Belgium," he said at the ceremony.

"That way, you will be even more architects of peace ... Our country will be an inspiration to Europe, which seeks unity in diversity."

The king is a key player in the formation of Belgium's government. He is also its head of state and the commander-in-chief of its armed forces.

Albert paid tribute to Prime Minister Elio di Rupo and the country's other politicians.

Di Rupo has been in power since 2011, when Albert helped end a political standoff that left the country without a government for 535 days.

Di Rupo told the outgoing king: "It's with a head held high and a duty perfectly accomplished that you today turn an important page in the history of our country."

The festivities continued yesterday after Philippe took the oath.