King Philippe will soon welcome two new members to his team, known as the House of His Majesty the King, as announced by the royal palace on Friday.
Starting 1 August, Peter Claes will assume the role of 'deputy chief of staff and diplomatic advisor' to the King. Claes, who has been a diplomat since 1993, is currently serving as Belgium’s ambassador in Brasília, Brazil. In his new position, he will inform the King about international political developments, assist in planning the King’s official foreign visits, and prepare the King’s meetings with international figures, according to the palace website.
From 1 October, Berbel Baert will take over as the new Secretary-General of the House of His Majesty the King. Baert, a career diplomat, is currently an advisor in strategy and management at the federal Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
The Secretary-General monitors significant societal issues in Belgium and briefs the King accordingly, the palace website states. The role also involves organising and preparing the King’s and Queen’s activities in social domains, coordinating their meetings with civil society representatives, and overseeing the planning of all royal activities, both domestically and internationally.
Peter Claes will succeed Eugène Crijns, while Berbel Baert will replace Dominique Mineur. Crijns and Mineur will take on new roles at the Federal Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Development Cooperation.
