The King holds formal audiences
On 12 June, The King received three new ambassadors during formal audiences at the Royal Palace.
![The King receives New Zealand's ambassador David Taylor.](/images/18.4dc756d188477e49f3cb47d/1686574149321/20230612_aud_Nya_Zeeland_01293.jpeg)
The King receives New Zealand's ambassador David Taylor. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden
It is accepted international practice that a new ambassador in a country is always given the opportunity to meet the head of state, although the ceremonies vary in different countries. In Sweden, the reception of a foreign envoy follows a traditional ceremony, and is quite unique with its centuries old traditions.
The foreign envoys received by The King during the formal audiences were:
- David Taylor, New Zealand
- Margaret Otteskov, Republic of Uganda
- Fatou Bensouda, Republic of The Gambia
![The King with Uganda's ambassador Margaret Otteskov.](/images/18.4dc756d188477e49f3cb481/1686574255685/20230612_aud_Uganda_01308.jpeg)
The King with Uganda's ambassador Margaret Otteskov. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden
![The King greets The Gambia's ambassador Fatou Bensouda.](/images/18.4dc756d188477e49f3cb480/1686574255562/20230612_aud_Gambia_01325.jpeg)
The King greets The Gambia's ambassador Fatou Bensouda. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden
![Guard of honour from the Life Guards.](/images/18.4dc756d188477e49f3cb482/1686574255765/20230612_hogtidliga_audienser_1338.jpeg)
Guard of honour from the Life Guards. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden