King urges MPs to listen and find common ground

King Carl XVI Gustaf urged members of Sweden’s parliament to listen to one another and seek common solutions in a speech opening the new parliamentary year, SVT reported.

He said the world was uncertain, citing Russia’s attack on Ukraine, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and urgent climate issues. Sweden’s success and influence abroad, he said, depend on values at home, including trust between people, a strong rule of law and confidence in democracy. Parliament has a central role in upholding those values.

The King acknowledged differences among both MPs and the public, including differences in age, where people live and their experiences. But he said people share the goal of a good and safe life, as well as the hope that the country will be governed responsibly, with the interests of all Swedes in mind and respect for democratic principles.

He ended by wishing MPs strength, courage and wisdom in their work.