HM The Queen’s speech at the Banquet on occasion of HM The King’s 80th birthday

Once upon a time, many, many years ago, we met – You and I.

Today, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of you who are here this evening to celebrate this grand occasion together with us, a wonderful moment for you, dear Carl Gustaf.

I hope you do not mind that I continue my speech in Swedish.

Dear Carl Gustaf,

Your calm and your confidence gave me the courage, not only to marry but to become Queen of Sweden.

A calm and confidence that have endured through the years.

You made me feel secure about the future early on. When you and I in our shared, important mission - you know that mission which never pauses - suddenly exchange glances of quiet understanding, yes, then I know that what once was, remains: a we, a then, a now.

You have many who plan your work. Yet it is not uncommon that something happens and we must improvise. Then, your sound judgement is needed.

I remember so well when your first Adjutant told me how difficult it had been for you at the beginning of September 1973 to choose and decide your motto. But then one morning it was time to tell the Marshal of the Realm your choice:

For Sweden – With the Times. But is that a good way to phrase a motto?

The Chief of Staff contacted the poet Bo Setterlind as a language expert. He turned the words over again and again, trying them in different tones, …and then, suddenly, he said: “Yes, it really is brilliant. Genius! Tell the young man!”

Yes, that is how it happened! You chose and determined your motto yourself!

You have, in a gentle and wise manner, shaped and influenced today’s monarchy. A monarchy which in many ways is the heart of Sweden, embraced by the good old traditions that you hold in high regard.

You are equally attentive to the needs of Sweden and to the spirit of the times. For you it is self-evident always to try to do what is best for our country, to be open to change. That has been your guiding principle through the years. You love Sweden: our open society and our sense of community, the changing seasons and the closeness to green spaces.

It is no wonder you are a patron of the organisation Keep Sweden Tidy.

This everyday commitment reflects your lifelong care for the environment and Your love of nature, not least the forest – a philosophy of life that you have passed on to our children.

You possess an inner calm, even when life around us is hectic. It is an invaluable asset, in your role as Head of State. Especially in times of crises, such as during the tsunami disaster – when you created a sense of security and served as a unifying force, showing the way forward.

And I admire your integrity! You are honest and sincere, always true to yourself, and never try to be anyone other than who you are. You stand firm in your values, which guide you in both great and small decisions. your integrity gives your character both strength and dignity.

Dear Carl Gustaf,

I am so grateful for the life we share and for all the years we have built something meaningful and enduring together. It is a true joy to see our love reflected in our wonderful children and their families, who enrich our lives in so many ways.

Yes, dear Carl Gustaf! Our life has been filled with happy years! I know that what once was, remains: a we, a then, a now!

Your Majesties,
Your Royal Highnesses,
Excellencies,
Mr. Speaker,
Mr. Prime Minister,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Family and friends,

Now I raise my glass, look into my husband’s eyes with love, and ask everyone to join me in a toast in His Majesty’s honour.

Long live His Majesty the King! Long live he! Hurrah, Hurrah, Hurrah, Hurrah!