A gathering of diplomats and friends of the Embassy of Luxembourg came together at The Imperial, New Delhi, to celebrate the National Day of Luxembourg. The evening was filled with stimulating conversations and camaraderie over fine food and drinks. Celebrated to mark the official birthday of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, the National Day reception began on a ceremonial note with the playing of the national anthems of both nations.
Relationship of steel
In her welcome address, Ambassador Peggy Frantzen said, “The National Day celebrations of 2025 are special, as it is the last one under the current head of state, Grand Duke Henri. This year also marks the completion of his 25 years of reign.” Adding, she said, “I hope more people get to know about the friendly and amicable long-time relationship between India and Luxembourg. Cultural ties are evolving, with many artists travelling to showcase their talents, thereby strengthening people-to-people links. Our cooperation in the steel sector started over a 100 years ago and remains an important link and strong base of the India-Luxembourg relationship.”
Ambassador of European Union Hervé Delphin and Ambassador of Ireland Kevin Kelly
Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs, who was the chief guest, said, “We send our warmest greetings to His Royal Highness and the people of Luxembourg. From the steel sector, which has been a core strength for a long time, our relationship with Luxembourg has expanded in investment and manufacturing in the fields of IT, fintech, and space. Culturally, with a large population of Indians in Luxembourg, many Indian festivals are celebrated there enthusiastically.“
German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann and Swiss Ambassador Maya Tissafi
Both the Ambassador and the chief guest remembered the late modernist artist Amarnath Sehgal, who played a pivotal role in cementing the artistic linkages and “promoting cultural understanding” between the two countries.
VN Dalmia with the Ambassador of Japan ONO Keiichi
As guests mingled, conversations ranged from art and culture to outer space, with many talking about the traditional savoury pie, Rieslingspaschtéit, that was served to the guests.
Traditional rieslingspaschtéit and one of Amarnath Sehgal’s sculptors
On a lighter note, the Ambassador said that she is thankful that this summer in Delhi was a bearable one. “Compared to last summer, it was better this year. I am glad I can go out more and enjoy my walks in Lodhi Garden.”
Ukrainian Ambassador Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk and Ambassador of Estonia Marje Luup
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