H.M. Konungens tal vid Business Summit – Join Sweden to Pioneer the Possible, världsutställningen Osaka

It is a privilege to welcome you all to this high-level business summit, where we will focus on the challenges - and the solutions - of tomorrow.

We are living in a time of rapid change. As new knowledge and groundbreaking technology emerge, humanity has an opportunity to shape a better and safer future - if we make the right choices.

Cooperation and dialogue are two of those choices. Sweden and Japan have long embraced that path, building on strong ties and shared goals. An important step on this journey was reached last year, with a new strategic partnership, covering many areas.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Together, we can achieve remarkable progress. Our business communities are innovative, successful, and socially responsible. And our universities and research institutions continue to lead and inspire.

The same is true for culture. Japanese artists and Swedish music producers share a long history of creative collaboration – something we had the pleasure of experiencing during the musical performance on this stage earlier today.

Our countries are united by a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, with deep respect for both nature and culture. It is no surprise that our partnership already has led to technological progress, environmental stewardship, and economic development.

And that work continues. Today, we are bringing together key voices from business, government, and academia in both Japan and Sweden to take our cooperation even further.

We will explore how science and innovation can drive positive change and how we can build a society that is strong, resilient and ready for the future. It is a special honour to welcome Professor Shinya Yamanaka, whom I had the privilege of awarding the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012. His insights and vision for a better future will surely inspire us all.

Let us also be inspired by Alfred Nobel’s legacy, striving to leave the world better than the one we inherited.

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is both a joy and a personal moment of reflection to speak to you here today.

In 1970, as a young Crown Prince, I was in Osaka to celebrate Sweden’s national day at the World Expo. That visit was my first time to Japan. Since then, I have returned many times to your beautiful country – on state visits, for business, for pleasure and for sports. I even participated in the Japanese version of the Swedish cross-country ski race Vasaloppet in Asahikawa, back in the 1990s!

Much has changed over the decades. Yet the World Expo in Osaka once again provides Sweden with a unique platform to showcase our innovative spirit and explore new avenues for collaboration.

I invite each of you to join us in this mission. Together, let us pioneer the possible and work towards a future that is prosperous, sustainable and inclusive for all.

Thank you!