Throughout his 20-year reign , Albert `` has never ceased to be a staunch defender of the values that are the basis of the European construction , '' the statement said . King Crown Prince Philippe abdication will be effective on Wednesday . His son Albert II 's will succeed him . the European Commission president praises Albert II 's in a statement .
King Crown Prince Philippe abdication will be effective on Wednesday . His son Albert II 's will succeed him . the European Commission president praises Albert II 's in a statement .