Military Visit to Afghanistan

29-30 November 2009

In her capacity of lieutenant in the Danish army, crown princess Mary made a 2-day visit to the Danish troops in the Afghan Helmand province. She was accompanied by the Danish defence minister, Søren Gade and by Folketinget chairman, Thor Pedersen. Caroline Heering, who had completed the same adjusted military formation as Mary was also part of the delegation.

The Danish delegation was given a tour of various camps, they met the soldiers and were briefed about the equipment and the current situation.

The visit was kept out of the media and was only reported about afterwards.

Mary was quoted saying: "I go home with a much deeper understanding of what it means to be at war in Afghanistan. I go home with a sense of pride over the people who represent Denmark. They are well reflected, dedicated professional men and women who make a major contribution for Denmark and they help to make our world more secure".