Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge joined her husband Prince William and other world leaders in Liege this morning, to mark 100 years since the outbreak of World War I. A century ago today, Great Britain declared war on Germany and it's allies, marking the beginning of four years of blood shed in Northern France and Belgium.
The ceremony took place at the Allies' Memorial in Coint and was attended by representatives from countries, on both sides of the conflict.
Addressing world leaders, which included German president Joachim Gauck and his Austrian counterpart Heinz Fischer, William spoke of the power of reconciliation and how far Europe had come following the conflict filled 20th century.
He said: "We were enemies more than once in the last century, and today we are friends and allies. "We salute those who died to give us our freedom. We will remember them,"
The Duke and Duchess take part in the WW I commemorations (WENN)
"The peace that we here enjoy together as allies and partners does not simply mean no more bloodshed – it means something deeper than that."
"The fact that, Mr. Presidents, you are here today to represent Germany and Austria, and that other nations – then enemies – are here too, bears testimony to the power of reconciliation.
"Not only is war between us unthinkable, but former adversaries have worked together for three generations to spread and entrench democracy, prosperity and the rule of law across Europe, and to promote our shared values around the world."
Paying tribute to the people of Belgium, he said: "Among the very first victims were the people of Belgium, whose resistance was as gallant as their suffering was great."
Duchess of Cambridge wore a cream dress coat for the occasion (WENN)
He went on: "The magnificent war memorial where we gather today honours the city of Liège and its people for their courageous resistance in 1914. The memorial – and this ceremony – also honours all Belgians, who fought, suffered and died in the Great War.
"Your great sacrifice and your contribution to eventual victory was pivotal. Belgium's resistance in 1914 allowed the Allies to re-group and draw up the battle lines which became the infamous trenches.
"These trenches have left an indelible scar on your land – they speak of the horrors of war but also of your forebears' courage."
Taking on a more stately role, as his grandmother the Queen reduces her own workload, William, his wife the Duchess and Prince Harry, will all be very involved with the centenary commemorations.
Kate and William sat next to French president, Francois Hollande during the ceremony (SplashNews)
Later today Prince William will attend events in Mons, before all three attend a Commemoration Event at Saint Symphorien Military Cemetery. Tomorrow the three royals will be at the Tower of London, to witness the unveiling of the Tower's poppy installation in the moat of the landmark.
Prince Harry, who has twice served in Afghanistan as part of his military career, will attend commemorations in Folkestone, Kent, where all those heading to the front passed through, this morning, before joining Kate and William.
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