King Frederik and Queen Mary host first Council of State dinner

King Frederik and Queen Mary have hosted their first Council of State dinner since the King’s reign began in January.

The King and Queen welcomed Cabinet members at Frederik VIII’s Palace at Amalienborg on 18 March.

Following tradition, Their Majesties posed with the government officials for a joint photo. This year’s image was taken on the steps of Fane Hall.

Steen Brogaard, The Royal House ©

Those in attendance included Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen, Finance Minister Nicolai Wammen and Minister of the Interior and Health Sophie Løhde. Members of the Royal Court staff also attended.

After the King and Queen greeted their guests, dinner was served in the Table Room with King Frederik escorting the Prime Minister into the hall.

The Royal House ©

A Council of State dinner is held once each government’s term with the last one being held in 2021 under the reign of Queen Margrethe.

The Council of State deals with laws and important government measures. The meetings are held with the monarch and include the ratification of bills. The King is also informed of what bills the government plans to bring to a vote.