H.M. Konungens tal vid näringslivs­seminarium i samband med statsbesök från Frankrike

I am happy to see so many French and Swedish organisations gathered here in Stockholm City Hall today. Sweden and France share a long history together and both countries are pioneers when it comes to innovation and new technology.

We are facing major challenges in the world today.

Several geopolitical crises coincide with one another. Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine has shaken our part of the world. We have also seen signs that anti-democratic forces are gaining ground around the globe.

Many people are also concerned about the economic development. And perhaps the greatest challenge of all is the climate crisis that we face together.

But, ladies and gentlemen, there is also hope. And many of you, present in this hall, are part of the solution to many of our challenges.

Trade, between countries and people, represents one of the most powerful tools for increasing prosperity and democracy. Especially between our two countries.

We are both strong in sectors such as energy, healthcare, mobility and defence.

Many of you represent companies that are successful in developing new innovations and technologies.

These will help us handle the challenges we are facing today. In France and Sweden, we see several solutions that will enable us to reduce our fossil energy dependence.

These innovations are steps towards solving the major climate challenge.

Sweden and France are strong partners, and I am happy to see the existing collaborations between our countries – between governments, between companies, and in society.

I also believe that, as we continue to collaborate and strengthen our ties, we accelerate Europe’s competitiveness and position in the world.

Mr President,
Ministers,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to see that the strategic partnership between our two countries has developed further during this State Visit. This marks our countries’ close ties and is a valuable framework to help strengthen our global effectiveness.

There are many dark clouds in the sky. Nevertheless, we who are present here today, and our countries, can create a future that is much brighter and more hopeful.

With these words, I wish you a continued productive day. It is my hope that you will be able to make new contacts and have an interesting exchange of ideas.

Thank you!