9 March 2022

The King holds formal audiences

On Wednesday 9 March, The King received four new ambassadors during formal audiences at the Royal Palace.

Morocco's ambassador Karim Medrek with The King.

Morocco's ambassador Karim Medrek with The King. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden

It is accepted international practice that a new ambassador in a country is given the opportunity to meet the head of state, although the ceremonies vary in different countries. In Sweden, the reception of a foreign envoy follows a traditional ceremony, and is quite unique with its centuries old traditions.

The foreign envoys received by The King during the formal audiences were:

  • Ambassador Karim Medrek from Morocco
  • Ambassador Erik Ramanathan from the United States
  • Ambassador Khtab Hussein Mohamed Lamin from Libya
  • Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Abdi from Somalia
The King with the United States' ambassador Erik Ramanathan.

The King with the United States' ambassador Erik Ramanathan. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden

Libya's ambassador Khtab Hussein Mohamed Lamin with The King.

Libya's ambassador Khtab Hussein Mohamed Lamin with The King. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden

Somalia's ambassador Mohamed Hassan Abdi and The King during the audience at the Royal Palace.

Somalia's ambassador Mohamed Hassan Abdi and The King during the audience at the Royal Palace. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden

The new ambassadors arrive at the Royal Palace in a horse-drawn cortège via Slottsbacken.

The new ambassadors arrive at the Royal Palace in a horse-drawn cortège via Slottsbacken. Photo: Henrik Garlöv/The Royal Court of Sweden

The Armed Forces Music Corps plays as the ambassadors and their retinues go up to the Audience Chamber.

The Armed Forces Music Corps plays as the ambassadors and their retinues go up to the Audience Chamber. Photo: Henrik Garlöv/The Royal Court of Sweden

Somalia's ambassador on his way to an audience with The King.

Somalia's ambassador on his way to an audience with The King. Photo: Henrik Garlöv/The Royal Court of Sweden

Libya's ambassador Khtab Hussein Mohamed Lamin and his retinue arrive at the Royal Palace.

Libya's ambassador Khtab Hussein Mohamed Lamin and his retinue arrive at the Royal Palace. Photo: Henrik Garlöv/The Royal Court of Sweden