King Carl Gustaf addressed his fellow Swedes “at home and abroad” on Christmas Day from the Royal Palace.
The King stressed the importance of security in an uncertain world during his yearly address.
“Christmas is community and tradition. A time for reflection and calm. Perhaps it is more important now than in a long time. In a world of conflict, rapid change, and uncertainty.
“When we feel anxious, the need for security becomes greater. But security is not a given. It is something we must create together. By sticking together, feeling proud and taking responsibility for Sweden, we stand strong when the wind blows hard,” he said.
He went on to discuss the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East: “Let us sincerely hope that we will soon see an end to the horrors of war.”
His Majesty remarked on Sweden becoming part of NATO this year, calling it “one of the biggest security policy decisions in Swedish history.” He also encouraged his fellow countrymen to read the new handbook sent out by the Swedish government on how to be prepared for war or a crisis.
Sweden’s monarch spoke of the highlights of the royal year – going to the Olympics in Paris and Princess Estelle joining her mother (Crown Princess Victoria) and grandmother (Queen Silvia) for the Paralympics. The Olympics hold a special place in the hearts of the Swedish Royal Family as that is where the King and Queen met at the 1972 Munich Games.
The King and Queen released this photo to mark Christmas 2024. Photo: Sara Friberg, Royal Court, Sweden
King Carl Gustaf also paid tribute to his older sister, Princess Birgitta, who died on 4 December at the age of 87, saying grief touches all and that it reminds him of the importance “to gather and remember.”
He closed by wishing the Swedish people well and that he hoped they could relax over Christmas break.
The King’s annual Christmas speech has aired on Swedish radio since 1973; it first aired on television in 2007.
The speech was aired on SVT and Swedish radio.
Be the first to comment on "King Carl Gustaf addresses Swedes “at home and abroad” on Christmas Day"