Crown Prince Alexander II to celebrate 80th birthday on Thursday

BELGRADE - Crown Prince Alexander II of Yugoslavia will celebrate his 80th birthday on Thursday, July 17.

In a message released on Wednesday, Alexander II said his birthday wish was for the people of Serbia to be "united, and focus on shared values, instead of our differences."

"Born in exile, stigmatised as the enemy of the state when he was not even two years old, he overcame difficult obstacles on his path, the one that was started and set for him to continue by his ancestors, members of the Karadjordjevic Dynasty," the press office of the Karadjordjevic royal family said in a statement.

"His Royal Highness extends his gratitude to everyone who will share the joy of this day with him and shares his birthday message:

'Years are just numbers, so I don’t give much attention to counting birthdays. But in these eight decades that have passed, I have seen a lot. And I have noticed how much not being united causes problems and trouble, how it can destroy a nation and its future. That is why, my birthday wish is for the people of Serbia to be united, and focus on shared values, instead of our differences. The future can only be built on harmony, mutual respect, and joint efforts. Our ancestors have taught us that. We must be worthy successors of their work and heritage.'

Crown Prince Alexander’s life story represents a reminder of a person being in constant and dedicated service to the people and homeland, regardless of how difficult and big adversities and challenges were set on this road," the statement said.

It also said a part of this legacy was documented by a short biographical film titled On the Trail of Kings’ Heritage, set to premiere on the royal family's YouTube channel and social media profiles on Thursday at 11 am.