H.M. Konungens tal vid Sveriges ambassads mottagning i Storhertigarnas palats

Storhertigarnas palats, Vilnius, Litauen

(Det talade ordet gäller)

Mr. President of the Republic of Lithuania,
Madame First Lady of the Republic of Lithuania,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Her Majesty the Queen and I would like to express our sincere thanks for the generous hospitality we have received here in Vilnius.

Just weeks ago, Her Majesty the Queen, the Crown Princess and I had the honour of receiving President Nausėda in Stockholm. The opportunity to meet twice within such a short period reflects the warm relationship between our countries.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I had the opportunity to see Lithuania’s drone technology. It highlighted a strong synergy in our bilateral partnership – Lithuanian innovation backed by Swedish financial actors. This collaboration plays an important role, as these drones are sent in support of Ukraine’s defence.

We also visited the Ukrainian Centre, an initiative by the First Lady, which further illustrates Lithuania’s solidarity with Ukraine.

And this afternoon, Her Majesty the Queen inaugurated a new palliative care centre in Vilnius, inspired by the Swedish model at Silviahemmet.

Ladies and gentlemen,

This official visit has reaffirmed the strength of our partnership, in business, technology, and innovation. It is clearly demonstrated by the strong presence of Swedish companies across Lithuania’s economy.

Let us continue to deepen our close bonds and make full use of the opportunities before us!

And now, I propose a toast – skål!

Thank you.