On Tuesday (May 26th) Prince Joachim of Belgium (28) attended a party in Córdoba, Spain, according to which "El Pais" was attended by 27 people – significantly more than is currently permitted due to the Corona pandemic. A day later, King Philippe of Belgium's nephew (60) showed symptoms of coronavirus infection, which was confirmed on Thursday (May 28). The prince is now repentant in a public statement.
"Quarantine measures not respected"
"I want to apologize for my trip and for not respecting the quarantine measures," quotes US magazine People from a statement by the prince's Spanish lawyer. It was not his intention to "offend anyone in these difficult times," it says. Prince Joachim "deeply" regrets his actions and accepts their consequences.
Before his trip to Spain, the son of Princess Astrid (57) and Prince Lorenz (64) had been in isolation with his parents at Laeken Castle near Brussels in accordance with the applicable regulations. The 28-year-old is also said to have adhered to the other corona requirements in his country.
A fine of up to 10,000 euros is impending
The authorities have now opened an investigation into the incident in the southern Spanish city of Cordoba. All visitors to the celebration in question were instructed to go into self-isolation. Partygoers who are demonstrably unable to comply with the strict requirements of the authorities – including Prince Joachim of Belgium – face a fine of up to 10,000 euros.