Prince Laurent of Belgium, 62, the brother of King Philippe, told the Belga news agency on 2/2 that he had met Jeffrey Epstein two times at the billionaire's request in the 1990s and 2000s. This admission follows the prince's name appearing in Epstein's investigation files, which were released by the US Department of Justice on 30/1.

According to Laurent, Epstein contacted him while the prince was interning at the United Nations (UN) and later at a bank in New York. Epstein sought an introduction to former King Albert II, but Prince Laurent refused the request.

Prince Laurent in Brussels, Belgium, in 7/2025. *Photo: AFP*

Laurent emphasized that these were private encounters, denying any meetings with Epstein "at public events or groups". He had previously stated that he "never attended any event with Epstein, whether directly or indirectly".

The Belgian prince is among several high-ranking individuals whose names emerged in the Epstein investigation files.

Epstein, born in 1953, was arrested in New York in 7/2019 on charges of luring dozens of minors and engaging in sexual acts. He faced 45 years in prison if convicted. Epstein denied all charges and was held at a Manhattan, New York prison. While awaiting trial, Epstein died by suicide in his cell in 8/2019.

By Ngoc Anh (AFP, Reuters)