Belgium's King Albert makes way for son Philippe

Updated: 2013-07-21 17:32

(Agencies)

BRUSSELS -  Belgium's King Albert has abdicated after a 20-year reign with his son Philippe ready to take the oath as the nation's seventh king later in the day.

At the royal palace on Sunday, the 79-year-old Albert signed away his rights as the kingdom's largely ceremonial ruler in the presence of Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo, who holds the political power in this 183-year-old parliamentary democracy.

Less than two hours later, Belgium will get a new king when Philippe, 53, takes the oath before the nation's legislators at the parliament building a short walk across the Royal Park in the heart of the city.

Early in the day, both Albert and Philippe mingled with the crowds under a royal blue sky following a Catholic ceremony that set off the festivities.

A policeman walks near a projection on the front of the Royal Palace during a fireworks display in Brussels July 21, 2013. Belgium is celebrating National Day, which also marks the abdication of King Albert II of Belgium and the investiture of his eldest son Philippe.[Photo/Agencies]