H.M. Konungens tal vid invigning av Östrands massafabrik
Timrå
(Det talade ordet gäller)
Minister,
Governor,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Almost half a century ago, in 1970, I spent a period of time in Sundsvall, for an internship at SCA. There have been many more visits since then.
I am glad to have the opportunity to be here at Östrand today, for this important step in the development of the region and the company.
Much of Sweden’s wealth has been built by planks and boards, paper and not the least – pulp.
Here in my hand I have a sheet of kraft pulp – the end product of this large mill. Almost one million tonnes of it will be made here annually.
But of course, that is not all you get for an investment of eight billion kronor.
No, this factory is also the source of green electricity, district heating, and valuable chemicals. And, in the near future, maybe also biofuels for cars, trucks and airplanes.
Ladies and gentlemen: The forest has shaped Sweden’s history. Now, it proves to be the raw material of our future.
It gives me great pleasure to declare the new Östrandpulp mill open. May it run successfully for many years to come!
