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. 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. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden

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. Photo: Sanna Argus Tirén/The Royal Court of Sweden

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. Photo: Henrik Garlöv/The Royal Court of Sweden

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. Photo: Henrik Garlöv/The Royal Court of Sweden