Major royal admitted to hospital 'with signs of dehydration' as a 'precaution'

27 June 2023 , 21:14

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In recent years, Albert II and his wife, Queen Paola, 85, have reduced their public appearances (Image: OLIVIER MATTHYS/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

King Albert II of Belgium has been admitted to hospital for "signs of dehydration".

His spokesman Xavier Vaert said Albert, 87, "was admitted as a precautionary measure"

Philippe cancelled his engagements today to visit his father in Saint-Luc Hospital, Brussels..

Spokesperson Xavier Vaert, told AFP: “Examinations are being done. He is conscious.”

Albert II, the younger child of King Leopold III, is the father of King Philippe, the current monarch of Belgium.

Baby boy has spent his life in hospital as doctors are 'scared' to discharge him

At the age of 59, Albert II ascended to the throne on August 9, 1993, following the death of his childless brother, Baudouin.

Former King Albert II of Belgium (L) and Queen Paola of Belgium pictured earlier this month (Belga/AFP via Getty Images)

He reigned as King until July 21, 2013, when he abdicated and passed the crown to his son Philippe, who is now 63 years old.

When abdicating after 20 years, he cited health concerns.

According to the BBC, in his address he said: “I realise that my age and my health are no longer allowing me to carry out my duties as I would like to.

“Prince Philippe is well prepared to succeed me.”

According to reports, King Albert is currently receiving care at Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc in Brussels (REX/Shutterstock)

In recent years, Albert II and his wife, Queen Paola, 85, have reduced their public appearances.

It is believed King Philippe cancelled his scheduled event at the University of Ghent to visit his father in the hospital today, People reported.

According to reports, King Albert is currently receiving care at Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc in Brussels.

Abigail O'Leary