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Prince Laurent risks penalty after visit to Chinese Embassy

21:35 07/08/2017

Belgium's prime minister Charles Michel has warned that a financial penalty may be in order for Prince Laurent after his visit last month to the Chinese Embassy in Brussels. The prince was photographed, in full military uniform, during the 90th anniversary celebration of the controversial Chinese army, despite his not being allowed to meet with foreign dignitaries unannounced.

The penalty may result in a partial deduction of Laurent's 2017 dotation, says the prime minister's spokesperson. According to Michel's cabinet, neither the government nor the palace was aware of Laurent's plan to attend the diplomatic ceremony. "This comes after several warnings from the prime minister," says the spokesperson.

Laurent was promptly informed of his misstep and invited to discuss the incident with the prime minister.

Written by Robyn Boyle