Outgoing UK Ambassador Reflects on Her Time in Luxembourg

Chronicle.lu recently had the opportunity to speak with the British Ambassador to Luxembourg, Fleur Thomas, as she prepares to depart her position in the Grand Duchy.

On 21 April 2021, Fleur Thomas was appointed as the British Ambassador to Luxembourg, after presenting her credentials to Grand Duke Henri. In April 2025, she will depart her post having served four years in the position, a period which coincided with several significant political and cultural events in both Luxembourg and the United Kingdom.

Before her departure, Chronicle.lu spoke to Ambassador Thomas about the challenges - and opportunities - she faced during her time in Luxembourg and what she will miss once she departs her position.

Chronicle.lu: The dates of your tenure as British Ambassador to Luxembourg have coincided with a number of significant political and cultural events, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III. Since Luxembourg also has a functioning monarchy (and there are significant ties between both royal families), did this perhaps affect the handling of the British Embassy's response in Luxembourg (e.g. organisation of commemorative events...) - if so, how?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: My time in Luxembourg has coincided with historic moments of both celebration and reflection. From Her late Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee to her passing and the coronation of Their Majesties The King and The Queen, these events were deeply significant - not only personally, but also for the Embassy and the many people in Luxembourg who share strong ties with the UK. Luxembourg’s monarchy played an important role in these moments, reflecting the deep and longstanding connections between our royal families. The Embassy worked closely with the Grand Ducal Court, the Luxembourg government and the wider public to ensure respectful and meaningful commemorations. We were touched by the warm tributes from across Luxembourg, including Their Royal Highnesses the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess attending Her late Majesty’s funeral. Just months earlier, we had the honour of celebrating the Platinum Jubilee, marked by HRH The Grand Duke’s visit to the British Residence. His presence at HM The King’s coronation further underscored the enduring friendship between our two nations.

Chronicle.lu: With both the UK and Luxembourg transferring to new governments during your time here, how do you feel these two changes, particularly in the context of Brexit, had an impact on bilateral relations?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: The changes in government in both the UK and Luxembourg presented fresh opportunities to reaffirm and strengthen our excellent bilateral relationship. Luxembourg has remained a valued and constructive partner, particularly in financial services, security and space. Both governments have prioritised stability and collaboration, ensuring a smooth transition for businesses and individuals. We were also privileged to support several high-level visits between our countries, reinforcing these shared interests. The UK and Luxembourg maintain a strong and forward-looking partnership, built on mutual respect and cooperation.

Chronicle.lu: How have your impressions of Luxembourg, both politically and culturally, developed during your four years here?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: Luxembourg has impressed me with its unique ability to blend tradition with modernity. Politically, it is pragmatic, outward-looking and plays an important role on the European stage. Culturally, Luxembourg is a fascinating mix of internationalism and strong local identity. I had the privilege of welcoming many British artists to Luxembourg during my time here. I have also been fortunate to build wonderful friendships and experience the exceptional quality of life here. Luxembourg’s commitment to sustainability, its excellent healthcare system and its beautiful natural landscapes all contribute to its charm.

Chronicle.lu: As you prepare to return to the UK, do you feel that, despite there being differences in size, there is anything the UK could learn from how Luxembourg functions on both political and social levels?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: Both the UK and Luxembourg have been home to me in different ways and they both have their unique strengths. One thing that stands out to me particularly is Luxembourg’s strong focus on multilingualism. I learned French for this posting and picked up a few words of Luxembourgish, but could have easily gotten by with only English, as most people speak it at such a high level. We are fortunate to speak a language that is globally recognised, but there is no harm in adding one or two more.

Chronicle.lu: From your perspective as a resident of Luxembourg, what will you miss most about living in the Grand Duchy?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: Luxembourg has been a fantastic place to live and work and there is a lot I will miss. The warmth and openness of the people, the close-knit international community and the friendships I have built over the years have made my time here truly special.

Chronicle.lu: Your love of cooking is well known and you famously arrived in the country with a large number of cooking books. Will you be leaving any of them or a particular recipe here for the kitchen staff at the British Embassy?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: Cooking has been one of my hobbies throughout my time here and I have worked on traditional British recipes with our chef. I will be leaving behind a few of my favourite recipes, including the Jubilee Trifle, which our chef prepared for HRH The Grand Duke when he visited the Residence to celebrate Her late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee. Luxembourg itself has a fantastic food culture and I have loved exploring its markets, local specialities and diverse international cuisine.

Chronicle.lu: What advice would you like to pass on to your successor, Joanne Olivier, about life as British Ambassador to Luxembourg?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: Luxembourg is a fantastic posting and I have no doubt Joanne will find it as rewarding as I have. I wish her every success and know she will continue to strengthen the excellent ties between the UK and Luxembourg.

Chronicle.lu: With such a diverse career behind you, what are your plans for the future when you return to the UK?

Ambassador Fleur Thomas: I am looking forward to the next chapter back in the UK. While I will miss Luxembourg, I look forward to taking some leave before announcing my next steps.

Joanne Olivier will take up her position as the British Ambassador to Luxembourg in April 2025.

SM