Sweden’s King Carl Gustaf spoke of the world’s suffering and the importance of respecting each other’s opinions while addressing the Swedish people on Christmas Day.
His pre-recorded address spoke of 2023 as a “dark year in many ways”, from the ongoing war in Ukraine to gang violence and the terror attack in Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza.
When discussing the colours of the Swedish flag (blue and yellow), the King stressed the importance of respecting each other’s opinions: “The Swedish flag symbolizes our values, our freedoms, but also our obligations and our responsibility towards others. We have every right to think differently. We protect freedom of opinion, but the great freedom is based on respect and tolerance.”
He also said Sweden was a country of laws that allow for freedoms, privileges and rights. His Majesty mentioned Sweden’s request to join NATO, calling it “the biggest defence and security policy change in our country since Sweden became militarily non-aligned over 200 years ago.”
The King also touched on the tours he and Queen Silvia took around Sweden for his Golden Jubilee, seeing museums and what Sweden has to offer.
To close his speech, he suggested people lend a helping hand to those around them during this time of the year before wishing Swedes “rest and strength that gives you joy and hope.”
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