British Ambassador Joanne Olivier delivers speech, pictured next to BLS President Darren Robinson; Credit: Jazmin Campbell, Chronicle.lu

On the evening of Thursday 26 June 2025, more than 200 people gathered at the British Ambassador's Residence in Luxembourg-Ville for the British-Luxembourg Society (BLS) Summer Reception.

This annual event offers BLS members an opportunity to connect and to welcome newcomers. Attendees enjoyed networking in the picturesque gardens of the residence, accompanied by live music from Jalo Sounds, as well as finger food and drinks.

BLS President Darren Robinson thanked everyone involved in organising the event, the British Ambassador for hosting, as well as sponsors and attendees for their continued support.

Joanne Olivier, the new British Ambassador to Luxembourg, hosted the BLS Summer Reception for the first time since assuming her post in April 2025. In her speech, she extended a warm welcome to guests and said it was "heartwarming" to see how "dynamic" and "engaged" members of the British community are in Luxembourg. She also praised the work of the BLS.

The ambassador highlighted the UK-EU reset, stating her intention to build on this momentum to further deepen the UK's relationship with Luxembourg. She added that she aimed to promote British interests over the next four to five years, expressing hope for enhanced cooperation with Luxembourg in areas such as security, technological innovation, climate and culture.

Guests also had the opportunity to admire the works of BLS Art students and a Jane Austen-themed exhibition inside the residence. Copies of the book #LuxUKLinks, written by former British Ambassador to Luxembourg John Marshall, were available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the charity selected by the British Stand at the International Bazaar.

As in previous years, the iconic red London bus service was on hand to transport guests between Glacis and the British Ambassador's Residence.