Baku, January 1, AZERTAC
Prince Henrik, the husband of Denmark's Queen Margrethe, is retiring, according to Press Association.
In her annual New Year's speech, the monarch announced that going forward, the 81-year-old prince consort will "only to a very limited extent partake in the official events, which for so many years have been a natural part of his life".
Margrethe, 75, said: "it is his decision, which I understand and respect. I am deeply grateful for all the support, help and inspiration he has given me over the years."
She married Henrik, a French diplomat, in 1967. The couple have two sons, Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim, and eight grandchildren.
Margrethe, whose powers are largely ceremonial, said she will continue "to carry out my duties with the support of my husband, though it will be less visible".
