Autumn is the time for the opening of parliaments, with monarchs are often at the centre of proceedings.
King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden has been joined by the Swedish royal family to attend the state opening of the Swedish national assembly, the Riksdag. The King along with Queen Silvia, Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Daniel, Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia attended on September 27th 2022.
The royal family rode in a horse-drawn cortege from Stockholm Royal Palace to the Riksdag building where they were received on arrival by the Speaker, Andreas Norlén. With a speech to the members of the Riksdag, the King declared the Riksdag open.
In his speech, the King said: “11 January 1974 was the first time that I opened the Riksdag, in the ceremony that at the time was called the ceremonial opening of the Riksdag. In the coming years, you will be faced with many important and difficult decisions. Take on that task – is a task – with thought and seriousness. Do your best for Sweden and its citizens.”
The Swedish monarch ended his speech with stirring words: ”I wish you, elected representatives of the people of Sweden, strength, courage and wisdom in your important work.”
Following the opening, the bells of Stockholms royal church, Storkyrkan, rang for the start of a service. The royal family was joined by members of Parliament, party leaders and invited guests in the church.
The day was rounded off with a grand concert, but what attracted the most attention there was that Queen Silvia suddenly cancelled her attendance. The Swedish royal court said that Queen Silvia had mild cold symptoms and therefore chose not to attend the concert, Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Daniel, Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia attended.
The Swedish parliament`s new working year formally begins with the opening of the Riksdag. For the newly elected Riksdag, this will also be the starting point for the upcoming mandate period. Sweden underwent a parliamentary election two weeks ago.
